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75 
cents 




THAOE MARK RiaiSTERIO 



No. 19 

Issued monthly. 
Subscription, $9.C 
'f'^N May, 1891 




37Johnf|.Mu5icH. 

Illustrated. 

\VOKmiHQT0H CO. 747 DKOADWAY 




"SIK KNKillT, CAN vol' M A K 10 TIIA'l' VAiC, STAND (IN KM>':'' 



COLUMBIA 



A STORY OF THE DISCOVERY OF AMERICA 



BY 



JOHN R. MUSICK 



ILLUSTRATED 






V 



NEW YORK 

WORTHINGTON COMPANY 

747 Bkoadway 
1891 



Copyright, 1891, by 
JOHN R. MUSICK. 



^y 

^;/< 



) a 



Press of J. J. Little & Co , 
Astor Place, New York. 



>^l 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 

PAGE 

The Horns of Taurus ...... 1 



CHAPTER II. 
Christina Ovilares 23 

CHAPTER III. 
The Madman of Genoa 41 

CHAPTER IV. 
The Wise Men of Salamanca 59 

CHAPTER V. 
The Fall of the Crescent . . . . .78 

CHAPTER VI. 
Again Denied 94 

CHAPTER VII. 
At the Bridge of Pinos 113 

CHAPTER VIII. 
From Gloom to Sunlight 128 

CHAPTER IX. 
Seeking an Unknown World I44 



7O 



\ 



iv CONTENTS. 

CHArTER X. 
The Mutiny 164 

CHAPTER XL 
Lights along the Shore 181 

CHAPTER XIL 
Search for the Grand Khan 200 

CHAPTER Xin. 
Fort Nativity 219 

CHAPTER XIV. 
Deserted — The Storm 235 

CHAPTER XV. 
The Assassin Foiled 256 

CHAPTER XVL 
Return to Palos 271 

CHAPTER XVIL 
A Lesson from an Egg 286 

CHAPTER XVIIL 
Father and Son 302 

CHAPTER XIX. 
Emigration 318 

CHAPTER XX. 
Conclusion 332 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. 



PAGE 



> " Sir Knight, can you make that egg stand on end ?" 

JProntispiece 

Hernando Estevan 1 

Some one seized the lad and placed him out of danger . 22 

Christopher Columbus 23 

"Is he slain, Duke ?" 33 

Christina Ovilares 43 

Martin Alonzo Pinzon 80 

Vincent Yanez Pinzon 82 

"Look," whispered the lad, seizing Columbus by the 

arm. " He is my uncle Garcia 1 '" . . .87 

Miguel tlie miitineer ....... 95 

"Did I not know I was called of Heaven to plead 
the cause of an unknown world, I would not 

dare stand in your presence " .... 101 

"We are pursued, Seiior Columbus " .... 126 

"See, it varies," cried Columbus, starting to his feet . 170 

Landing of Columbus 205 

" Wluit I am about to say may cost me my life " . .211 

He was forced backward, down to his knee . . 231 



Vi LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. 

" Wliiiidi) VdU pi'Dposc (loiiii;' willi Ihi'iii ?" . . . 341? 

Sliuidiiii;' (Ui the crossiiii-cc of the 1i()\vs|)ImI, Icjuiing 
lurwanl Irviiii;- lo pierce the distance, and make 
(Hit the Cealures of those on shore, was Hernando 
Estevau 278 

The youtli had a dim recollection of tliat face, and 

staggering forward, lie cried : "Father!" . 316 



COLUMBIA. 



CHAPTEK I. 



THE HOENS OF TAURUS. 



Many names once familiar in Spanish history 
have been forgotten, or so involved in the threads 
of fiction as to be of doubt- 
ful origin. Among those 
still clinging to history by 
the slenderest cords of truth 
is the once well-known name 
of Estevau. At times it was 
lost to the world, but after a "^jW'W^ 'N 
few decades again appeared 
under the mao;ical touch of 
some poet, novelist, or his-, 
torian ; and in the dim twi- 
light of church legend are to be found a thou- 
sand stories of this once powerful family. Span- 
ish romance has so enshrined it in imperishable 
lines that it is difficult to separate ti'uth from 
fiction. 

The name Estevan is a peg on which countless 
charming inventions have been hung. Spanish 




llEUNANuo Estevan. 



2 COLUMBIA. 

Cliristiuii and Arabian poets, ballad writers, and 
ancient chroniclers, historians to whose heads the 
wine of these delightful legends has too frequently 
mounted, liave made of " Bstevan " the incarnation 
of their own subtly-woven fancies. The origin of 
this family is not known. Not being directly 
related to the throne of any of the provinces, no 
chronicler has ever taken the trouble to investi- 
gate tlieir genealogy. They are mentioned in the 
Arabian chronicles of the Cid, a sort of a profes- 
sional highwayman, wbo is himself enwrapt in a 
mythical veil. 

The Spanish provinces in the peninsula divided 
their time between fighting each other and their 
common enemies, the Moors. 

When the three thrones were occupied first 
by Don Jnan of Aragon in 1425, there was none 
more loval to the house of Castile than Philip 
Estcvan, a prominent Spanish grandee and a gal- 
lant knight, who fell at the age of fifty while bat- 
tling with the Moors. He left two sons, Eoderigo 
and Garcia, and a large estate to be divided be- 
tween them, with promises of a title and ancestral 
honors for each. 

Roderigo and Garcia Estevan, sons of the gal- 
lant old knight of Castile, arrived at man's estate 
about the time the numerous petty kingdoms of 
Spain — Castile, Aragon, Navarre, and the Moorish 
kingdom of Granada — were being gradually amal- 



THE HORNS OF TAURUS. g 

gainated. into one comj)reliensive nationality, to 
enter upon the arena of European ]K)litics, and 
form a nation that was to be one of the great 
powers of earth. The brothers were of the ricos 
hombres, or higlier ckiss, which acted in war or 
peace like so many independent sovereigns. 

When trouble arose with Enrique IV. of Cas- 
tile, Roderigo, who was the elder by two 3'ears, 
remained true to his sovereign. Negotiations 
between the combatants resulted in a general 
amnesty, and the recognition of Isabella as heir- 
ess to the crown of Castile and Lcoii. Being now 
a brilliant matrimonial object, the new queen was 
beset with proposals of marriage, as history in- 
forms us, and chose among her many suitors the 
gallant Ferdinand of Aragon. 

While the bride-elect was being watched by 
Villena and his spies, and in peril of being seized 
by him with intent to defeat the marriage, she 
was taken to Yalladolid, guarded by a band of 
Castilian knights, among whom were Eoderigo 
and Garcia. 

They were present at the royal marriage, and 
Garcia became one of the conrt officers of the 
new king and queen, while Roderigo remained 
true to Em'ique until his death in 1474, which 
extinguished the male line of the house of Trasta- 
mara, and gave a short breathing space to the 
nation. At Segovia, December 13, 1474, in the 



4 COL UMBIA. 

public square of the quaint old Castilian«cit3^, sur- 
rounded bv gorgeously clad functionaries, invok- 
ing the blessings of heaven on her reign — a 
tableau heightened by tlie exquisite Spanish sun- 
shine, the fantastic old colonnaded houses, the 
singularh' beautiful situation of the city with, its 
grouped and castellated hills, the lofty presence 
of the majestic and slender-columned cathedral, 
and the countless variegation of clanging bells, 
floating standards, Te Deums, and brilliant cos- 
tumery — Isabella was solemnly proclaimed queen. 
Garcia Estevan, who bad already grown to be a 
favorite with Ferdinand, was the herald first to 
proclaim • 

"Castile! Castile ! for. the Kino- Don Ferdinand 
and his consort Dona Isabella, Queen proprietor 
of these kinsfdoms ! " 

Both the brothers might have retained their 
favor with the new sovereigns had not difficulties 
risen between them, which estrano-ed each from 
the other ; Garcia differed from his brother, beins 
of an envious, jealous disposition, and more in- 
clined to hoard up wealth and honors than to 
seek fame and renown, which his more daring 
brother won from many a hard-fought battle-field. 
Roderigo was usually on the frontier, battling with 
the Moors, and knew nothins; of the intrigues of 

7 O O 

Garcia. 

Their father had left the greater part of the 



THE HORNS OF TAURUS. . 5 

family ostate to his elder son, who was his favor- 
ite, which piqued Garcia, and caused him to begin 
early to plot his brother's ruin; Eoderigo, gallant, 
brave, and generous, entertained no thought of 
evil against his brother, but went on seeking ad- 
ventures by land and sea, determined to add new 
laurels to the family name. Like many brave 
but restless men, he was constantly quitting one 
field of adventure for another. He returned from 
a campaign against the Moors, and sailed away 
with a Portuguese exploring party, then on his 
return again entered the field. 

All might have gone well had not an incident 
happened, about one j^ear after the coronation of 
Queen Isabella, which completely estranged them. 
The Moorish kingdom of Granada was in con- 
stant war with the Christians, and continually 
sending out predatory incursions into their terri- 
tory. 

The clash of arms was constantly heard in the 
sweet valleys and among the sunny hills of An- 
dalusia. Villages were sacked, and men, women, 
and children carried away into captivity. 

One day Eoderigo came upon a small party of 
Moors, returning from one of their predatory in- 
cursions, who had as prisoner a beautiful maiden, 
the daughter of a Christian gentleman of Navarre, 
who had fallen in defending his home. The 
knight lowered his visor, couched his lance, and. 



fi COLUMBIA. 

thougli ho was only one against six, charged 
lilce a tliunderbolt among them. Two of the 
Moors were slain, the others pnt to flight, and the 
victor bore the fair maid of Navarre in triumph 
to Castile. Garcia met tlie maiden whom his 
knightly brother had rescued, and became in- 
fatuated with her beautv. She was of an excel- 
lent and once powerful family, but her ancestors 
liad become impoverished by the internal wars 
which had for years cursed Spain. Her beauty 
and vivacity the slircwd Garcia knew would 
make her a great favorite at court. 

But the fair maid of Navarre preferred the 
gallant knight whom she had met under snch 
romantic circumstances, and in the race for her 
hand Garcia was beaten by Eoderigo, who won 
the beautiful Juana of Navarre, thereby incurring 
the bitterest hatred of his envious brother. Gar- 
cia's intrigues became bolder, and he succeeded 
in making the king believe that his brother was 
conspiring with King John II. of Portugal to 
overthrow the Spanish monarchs. In those days 
suspicion was followed by condemnation. 

Eoderigo had not been married quite two years 
when a babe was born to bless his home, and ere 
his child was old enough to lisp his name, the 
father was seized and imprisoned. After a short 
time he was released, but deprived of his estates 
and rank. Yet noble, generous, and loyal to the 



THE HORNS OF TAURUS. 7 

last, lie joined liis king in a campaign against 
the Moors, and won distinction in several liard- 
fonglit engagements. He was now only a poor 
soldier, depending on his sword for a livelihood 
for himself, wife, and child. Garcia, whose hatred 
increased with vears, began to fear his brother 
might regain his lost favors with the prince, and 
set in operation new plots and intrigues, bringing 
into his service an apostate Moor named Abdallah 
Ahmed. They represented to their sovereigns 
that Koderigo was offerinij his services to King 
John II., and was secretly plotting an invasion to 
Spain. 

Hernando, lioderigo's babe, was but five years 
of age when the final crash which wrought his 
father's ruin came. His parents lived in a cottage 
on the coast, not far from the seajjort town of 
Palos, and the boy loved to sit on the beach and 
listen to the sad waves breathing their mournful 
tale of some far-off land. The child often won- 
dered to what vast unknown regions on the other 
side, that great body of water extended. 

One day his father came home, his face white 
with deep anxiety and despair, Hernando listened 
in simple, childish wonder to the hurried tearful 
interview, and, young as he was, his young heart 
seemed to feel a weight of lead fall upon it. His 
father's sighs and mother's tears were enough to 
convince him that something was wrong. Then 



8 COLUMBIA. 

came an affectionate farewell, in which the mother 
broke down and sobbed, his father caught him in 
his arras, pressed a warm kiss on his cheek, and in 
an agon}^ of spirit cried: 

" May God bless you both ! " 

Then the father hurried away down to the wild, 
rocky shore, where a boat was ready to carry 
him off to a strange ship lying at anchor a short 
distance off. The fugitive was taken aboard the 
vessel, anchor was hoisted, and he sailed away upon 
that vast expanse of unknown water. Hernando 
and his mother stood on tlie edge of the cliff, and 
watched the sail grow smaller and smaller until it 
disappeared forever. Young as he was, the lad 
knew that his father had been condemned, and 
was flying for his life. His father had told his 
mother that Abdallah Ahmed, the wicked Moor, 
had, at the instigation of Garcia, made a false oath 
against him, and that the king had issued another 
warrant for him, dead or alive. 

The boy lived alone with his mother in their 
cottacre, and hearino; no tidinsjs from the absent 
father and husband, the mother and wife began to 
pine away. Her mother, the good granddame, 
Sehora Doria, came to live with tliem, and care for 
the unfortunate invalid, who in reality was dying 
of a broken heart. Weeks, months, and years 
passed, and the mother and wife grew more fee- 
ble as she waited and waited, patiently hoping 



THE HORNS OF TAURUS. 9 

and praying for tidings from her beloved hus- 
band. 

She used to sit by the water, her little son at 
her side, and gazing away to the westward, told 
him stories from Marco Polo, about a wonderful 
country beyond the sea — of islands, continents, 
cities, and people who dwelt there ; and Hernando, 
listening to her, would exclaim: 

"Surely my father must be on one of those 
islands, and when I grow to be a man, mother, I 
will go and bring him back, and then you will 
weep no more." 

Then she told him that, according to Marco 
Polo, some of those islands were inhabited by 
wild, savage people, who made their captives 
slaves. Perhaps even then his father was a slave 
to some cruel master, poorly fed, cruelly beaten, 
and longing to come home to those whom he 
loved. Such an impression these stories made on 
his tender young mind, and so vivid became his 
imagination, that he fancied he could hear his 
father's voice calling from out the great expanse 
of water for deliverance. 

His mother grew weaker and weaker until at 
last she was confined to her bed, and then she died ; 
and Hernando sat alone on the beach, and listened 
to the waves, imagining that he heard his father's 
sighs and groans in their murmurs. When the 
storm lashed them to a fury he said that his 



10 COLUMBIA. 

father's iiKistcrs were angry, and he could hear 
the shrieks of the slave. 

Hernando had reached his thirteenth year, and 
still lived in the humble cottage with the grand- 
daine. Thc}^ supported themselves by their gar- 
den, cow, and goats. The boy grew strong, was 
a brave lad, and had joined in one or two expedi- 
tions against the Moors. He bad but two objects 
in life; one was to avenge his father on the rene- 
gade Moor Abdallah, who had borne false witness 
against lioderigo. Abdallah had forsaken the 
cause of Christianity which he once pretended 
to espouse, and again fought under the crescent. 

One morning Hernando and the good old grand- 
dame Doria sat at breakfast, and, as usual, their 
conversation drifted away to the subject always 
nearest their hearts, the lad's missing father. Old 
Doria was never so happy as when sounding the 
praises of this gallant knight, or lamenting the 
wrongs he had suffered, and in the proud Her- 
nando she always found an eager listener. 

"I remember my father, and a grand, noble man 
he was," interrupted the lad. " Oh, I can remem- 
ber how he looked, with his coat of mail and 
sword clanging at his side ! No wonder poor 
mother grieved and died when he went away so 
mysteriousl}'^ and never came back," 

"Ah, it was a sad day, lad, when the good 
knight sailed ! " 



THE HORNS OF TAURUS. 11 

" lie had to go, granddaiuc, for thoy would 
have killed him if he had stayed. But mother 
used to tell me of an Island of Seven Cities, which 
had houses roofed with gold '' 

"Aye, and savage men who kill people or 
make slaves of them," interrupted the grauddanic. 

Then the boy grew sad and thoughtful. His 
porridge became cool, nnd he seemed far away, a 
witness to his father's suffering and degradation. 
Suddenly recovering himself, he said: 

" It won't be long. I will soon be a man ; then 
father shall be rescued, and the cruel Moor Ab- 
dallah put to death. Less than a year ago I saw 
Abdallah, and told him when I became strong 
enough to wield a lance or arquebus I would slay 
him. 

"Beware of the Moors, lad; beware of the 
Moors. They are treacherous lieathen dogs, and 
may tlie Holy Virgin be praised when they are 
all driven from Christendom ! " 

The boy's eyes suddenly'- grew brighter, and he 
exclaimed : 

"Oh, Granddame Doria, I forgot to tell you ; I 
met him again yesterday ! " 

"Who, the Moor?" 

" No ; heaven forbid ! The dog is now f)enned 
up with his scurvy countrymen, like sheep, in 
Granada, with the king's artillery battling down 
the walls." 



12 COLUMBIA. 

" Whom saw you, lad ? " 

"The oddest man I ever met. They call him 
Old Antipodes. I don't know what it means, 
granddame, but he is a good, brave man, a sailor, 
and a great explorer." 

"What is he like?" 

" Like a saint. Ah, good granddame, I never 
saw such a face, so full of kindness and love! 
His gray eyes and snow-white hair and beard give 
him a saint-like look. I was on the road from 
Palos with some boys when he passed. Some of 
the children cried : ' There comes the mad man 
of Genoa,' and they ran away, while I stood and 
watched him. As ho passed by he paused to 
look at me." 

" What did he say ? " 

"Nothing. He wore a breastplate, but he is 
more of a friar than a soldier." 

" Why do they call him a mad man, and if he 
be mad, why does he go armed ? " 

" They call him mad because he says the world 
is round, and turns over in a day and night ; and 
he also says people live on the other side of it — 
that there is a great continent there to balance 
this." 

"He must be mad, indeed, to say that," the in- 
credulous granddame answered. "If the world 
was round or turned over, we would fall off when 
we got on the under side." 



THE UORNS OF TAURUS. I3 

This theory had puzzled older heads than 
Hernando's, The science of geography and nat- 
ural forces were in their infanc}', and laws of gravi- 
tation, now common with every school boy, almost 
wholly unknown. 

"I don't understand it, granddame, but he is no 
mad man even if he does say such strange things. 
He is too good and too great to be a mad man. 
He has spent his life in studying maps, charts, 
the stars, and the earth, and he has already be- 
come a great sailor and explorer. He wants to 
take a fleet, I am told, and go around the world." 

" Around the world ? " 

"Yes, granddame." 

"When he reaches the under side he will fall 
off." 

" I believe he can do it ; and if he gets our vsov- 
ereigns to fit out a fleet for him, I want to go 
along, for then I would find my father, and rescue 
liini from slaver}^ granddame, good, good, 
granddame, I hear my father every night in my 
sleep, calling me to come to his deliverance, and 
I must go!" Unable longer to control his emo- 
tions, the boy broke down and wept. 

"Poor child ! long dwelling on that subject will 
drive him as mad as the white-haired man." 

But buoyant childhood soon shakes off sorrow 
and care as the spaniel does the water from his 
sides. Hope and joy of youth will burst through 



14 COLUMBTA. 

the darkest despair, and break over the strongest 
barriers, letting in sunshine on the saddest young 
heart. The boy was just recovering from his fit 
of sobbing, when the quick sound of approaching 
footsteps reached his ear, and a playmate, thrust- 
ing his face within the door, called : 

'* Come, Hernando, have you forgotten the 
Plaza deToros?" 

The speaker was his playmate Alberto, and 
Hernando now remembered having promised to 
accompany him that morning to the bull-fight 
near the village. The fight was to be a grand 
affair, and was as great an attraction in that day 
to the small boy of Spain as the circus and men- 
agerie are at present. Hernando glanced at his 
granddame for her approval, and the dear, good 
old soul, knowing how little happiness had been 
allotted to the poor child, readily assented, after 
exacting a promise that they would both be care- 
ful. 

It was fully three miles across rugged hills and 
steep, thorny paths to the Plaza de Toros, which 
was simply a vast amphitheatre, something likethe 
old Roman arena. But what was three miles to 
two active boys full of excitement and admiration 
of daring deeds in either man or beast? 

The day was hot and dusty, and the palm, 
maguay, tumble-down walls, and distant towers 
were the only features of the near landscape, which 



THE IIOJiNS OF TAURUS. 15 

was Loundcd by the clonial circle of l)lue hills, 
the rim of a basin in wliich li(\s the village of 
Palos, like a pi^arl in an oyster-shell. IFalf aniile 
from Palos, amid a crowd of soldiers, corralled 
horses, waiting vehicles, beggars, cripples, and 
thieves, arose tbe Plaza de Toros. 

There was little attempt at architeetnral or 
artistical elevation about the Plaza de Toros, but 
it wore a businessdike executioner intention, 
which marked the unaesthetic Gotho-Spauiard, the 
unchanged child of hard Iberia, who looked for a 
sport of blood and death, required no extraneous 
stimulant. The interior of the arena was uii- 
adorned, but admirably calculated for seeing, and 
a bull-light is essentially a spectacle. In those 
times, as now, the bull-fight was a Saturnalia, One 
thought stirred in every heart. One heart beat 
in ten thousand bosoms. The moving line of the 
Calle de Alcala became the aorta of the village, 
through which a dense mass wound like a colossal 
snake to its prey. 

Four hundred years have worked but vei-y little 
change in the Spanish buU-fight, and, in fact, the 
arena of to-day is said to be the arena of twenty 
centuries ago. Once inside, and the classical 
scene bursts on the beholder in all the splendor of 
open day ; the vast space was filled with the glori- 
ous light of an unclouded heaven, s})read above 
like an azure canopy. 



16 COLUMBIA. 

The boys liaviufj;' gained admission to the am- 
phitheatre made their way into the arena, which 
was crowded with men and boys, until the hour 
for clearing it came, when they occupied humble 
places between the first and second barriers, where 
they would have an excellent view of the sport. 
At the appointed hour the trumpet sounded, and 
the crowd, which had been yelling itself hoarse, 
rose in an outburst of enthusiasm, presenting a 
very brilliant appearance. This was before the 
decay of the picturesque, and a Spanish assembly 
was a glorious sight. Every shade and hue of 
the kaleidoscopic mass, that fluttered and glittered 
in the blazing sun and sombre shadow, seemed in 
motion. From the president's box a signal was 
given. Portals opened and two alguazils, or 
police-officers, well mounted and elegantly dressed, 
entered. After these came the chief matador, 
with a red flag and sword ; then the supernu- 
meraries with chulos, or assistants, on foot — all 
arrayed in sparkling costume of the period. Next 
came the picadors, mounted on veritable crow- 
baits for steeds, gayly dressed, with breastplates 
and greaves of leather. The procession wound 
up witli some gayly equipped mules, which were 
to remove the slain. 

" Oh, how grand ! " exclaimed the bovs, as they 
all filed into the arena, bowing and smiling to the 
sbouting spectators. 



THE HORNS OF TAURUS. 17 

After the procession had inarched entirely 
around the arena, the second trumpet, which sig- 
nalled the combat, sounded. The alguazil rode 
in front of the state box, from whence the key 
to the bull-pen was thrown, and that official, 
catching it in his hat, handed it to a chulo, and 
galloped away amid the jeers of the crowd, who 
hoped the bull would catch and toss him on its 
sharp horns. The brilliant army of combatants 
now separated, each taking his respective place. 

The boys watched the chulo unlock the door 
which was to admit the bull. Out he came, a 
great black monster with long, tapering horns, 
sharp as sword-points. Let loose from his dark 
cell, and amazed at the novelty of the position, he 
gazed an instant at the crowd and waving hand- 
kerchiefs. After a brief interval he recovered his 
senses, while his splendid Achillean rage fired 
every limb, and with closed eyes and lowered 
horns he charged the foremost of the three pica- 
dors, who were drawn up at intervals close to the 
wooden barrier. The horseman with presented 
spear boldly awaited the onset, speaking a few 
words of command to the wretched, trembling 
horse. Only the poorest, broken-down hacks 
were sacrificed by the picadors. The steed begot 
as little sj^mpathy as the bull. When gored to 
death he was dragged out by the mules, leaving a 
bloody furrow in tlie sand. The picador thrust 
3 



18 COLUMBIA. 

his blunt liince against the shoulder of tlie liull, 
and held hiui back. In vain taurus kicked up 
behind, tossed his sliarp horns in the air, but the 
firm arm of the picador held bini at bay. Learn- 
ing that nothing was to be gained here, the bull 
turned away, trotting angrily to another picador, 
charged into him, and banged horse and rider 
head over heels on the ground ten feet awa}-. 
But taurus did not want to liurt anybod3\ He 
hugged the barrier, tried to leap it, and tben to 
break through the gate. There seemed danger 
of -final success, and Hernando suggested to his 
young companion that tbey ought to get into 
safer quarters. Alberto did not think so, as 
mounted soldiers with lances were in the space 
between the two barriers, to slay the bull in case 
he should leap the first. 

The chulos now began to chivy taurus. They 
were all picked young men, who had just com- 
menced their tauromachian career. The chulo's 
duty was that of a skirmisher, to draw off the 
bull when a picador was endangered. This was 
done with their party-colored silken cloaks and 
banners. Their mercurial address and agility 
were marvellous ; tliey would skim over the sand 
like glittering humming-birds, seeming scarcely 
to touch the earth. Then, as now, the chief 
weapon of the chulo was the banderillo, a barbed 
dart or arrow, wliich was wrapped with bits of 



THE HORNS OF TAUBLTS. 19 

party-colored cloth and ribbons. These tormentors 
shouted in front of the bull, waving their cloaks 
until he charged right down into their midst. It 
seemed as if the furious beast must inevitably 
gore some of them, and Hernando held Lis breath 
in expectation of some dreadful tragedy. But 
just as the roaring monster with lowered liorns 
dashed into their midst, the men leaped nimbly 
aside, separating in different directions. 

This was bull-fightiDg four hundred years ago; 
and, in countries where this relic of barbarism is 
still tolerated, it is bull-fighting of the present. If 
such torture is amusement at this dav, we can 
excuse Hernando and his young companion for 
growing enthusiastic, and shouting with delight, 
when one feat more daring than another was per- 
formed. 

Sitting in the front row, back of the second bar- 
rier, was a man apparently fifty years of age, with 
broad, high forehead, and hair white as snow. 
His plumed hat lay on his knee, while his light 
gray eye watched Hernando with fatherly solici- 
tude. Did his prophetic soul read something in 
the bright lad, whicli told him that the destiny of 
the child and man was henceforth to be closely 
linked ? 

The boys were watching with deepest interest 
the conflict in the arena. The bull was goaded to 
madness, and the sorry mounts of the picadors were 



20 COLUMBIA. 

uuable to escape his furj. He charged another, 
and no lance could hold him back ; he stood under 
the horse and drove his sharp homis again and again 
into his body, until the footmen tempted him awa}', 
and the unfortunate beast, mortally wounded and 
dying, was half led and half dragged from the 
arena. 

The picadors had furnished sport enough, and 
the first act ended as they retired. The second act 
was to be played by the chulos, or what in mod- 
ern days are called banderilleros. 

A chulo, taunting the bull with his red cloak 
until he provoked a charge, took a barbed dart in 
each hand, and as the bull dashed at him he es- 
caped the horns by bare six inches ; leaning over, 
as he jumped aside, to plant a dart on either side 
of his neck. This was repeated again and again, 
until the bull wore a collar of fluttering torture. 
This practice is almost the same at the present 
day, save that the banderillo is decked with tinsel, 
paper flowers, and streaniers, instead of ribbons. 

The bull tried hard to shake off that stinging 
collar, and, finding it impossible, dashed right and 
left at everybody and everything ; but in vain, the 
chulos were too nimble for him. 

At last he halted near the barricade and refused 
to stir. The hated red cloak v/as again and again 
flaunted in his eyes, but the poor, dumb animal 
knew he was powerless ; he was bleeding from a 



THE HORNS OF TAURUS. 21 

dozen wounds; white slaver tinged with Ijlood 
hung from his open mouth, lie panted and stood 
still. That bloodshot eye had lost some of its 
fire, and a look of despair, almost human, was ex- 
pressed by the beast. lie was ready to give up the 
fight and^ go home, but he could never leave the 
arena alive. A low, piteous bellow escaped him, 
as, with lowering head, he refused to move. 

Determined to incite him to action, a nimble 
chulo leaped on his back and drove a sharp bande- 
rillo in each quivering flank. A wild bellow of 
agony and rage, such as never before shook the 
arena, made the ground quake, and like a flash 
the bull bounded away, hurling the chulo to the 
earth. With the speed of a steeple-chaser he flew 
across the Plaza de Toros, clearing the inside bar- 
rier with a lea}) that was astonishing. 

He was now almost on the two boys, Hernando 
and Alberto. With cries of terror they wheeled 
to fly ; l)ut the enraged bull saw tliem, and, lower- 
ing his horns, gave vent to another earth-quaking 
roar, and cliarged after them. Wildest excitement 
prevailed everywhere. Men screamed, and women 
swooned, while members of the caudrilla hastened 
after the escaped bull. 

Hernando was half-way to the second barrier, 
when he stumbled and fell. A cry of despair 
escaped his lips, and he imagined that he felt those 
Ions, keen horns tossing his body, when there 



22 COLUMBIA. 

J-a'uo n, swift rusl, ,>f f,vf, 1,. ^-as solzo.1 a„<1 
liiifled out ,.f iKirin's way. At the san.o instant a 
mounted kni-i,t with a kcM>n hnu-.^ rl.arovd laurus 
and slew liini. 

Almost fainting with dread, tlie lad ^rl a need up- 
ward to get a glimpse of his deliverer, aud beheld 
the same mild, sweet-faced man, with snowy hair 
and light gray eye, whom he had attempted to 
describe to his granddame-a man whose face 
showed the student and the Christian. He wore 
a breastplate and sword, yet he more nearly re- 
sembled a priest than a soldier. 




SOMK UNIC SKIZK.I) TllK I, AD AM> IM,A('i;i) III.M OITT OH" DANGER. 



CHAPTER II. 



CHRISTINA OVILAEES. 



Through the excited throng, Hernando's 
strange rescuer half led and half carried hira. 
T h c boy was 
t r e m b I i n g at 
his narrow es- 
cape, and divid- 
ing his time be- 
tween prayers 
o f gratitude, 
and glances at 
the s t r a n ge , 
fatherly face of 
the m a n who 
had rescued 
h i m. T h e 
Plaza de Toros 
had no more 
attractions for him. His life, which was to be 
devoted to the rescue of his father from captiv- 
ity among unknown barbarians, had been almost 
foolishly sacrificed. 

The stranger conducted the lad to a small pub- 
lic-house, where he ordered wine for the bov, who 




Christopuer Columbus. 



24 C0LU3IBIA. 

was faint from excitement. Hernando sank down 
on a rude bencli at the table, and his rescuer sat 
beside him. An Andalusian girl brought wine, 
and pouring a glass half full the stranger held it 
to the lad's lips and said : 

"Drink this." 

It was the first time he had spoken, and if 
the boy was moved by his appearance, he was 
charmed by his voice. Never had he heard tones 
more gentle, at the same time deep and firm, as if 
the speaker was one for kings and princes to obey. 
He drank the wine and pushed back the glass, 
while, with his eager eyes fixed with all a lad's 
inquisitiveness on the strangely sad face, he asked : 

" Who are you? " 

"I am Christopher Columbus, a native of 
Genoa," was the answer. 

This was Christopher Columbus, the discoverer 
of the New World, with whom our story chiefly 
deals. He was tall, well formed, muscular, and 
of an elevated and dignified demeanoi-. His vis- 
age was long, and neither full nor meagre; his 
complexion, fair, freckled, and inclined to ruddy ; 
his nose, aquiline; his cheek bones were rather 
high ; his eyes, light gray, and apt to enkindle 
wnth enthusiasm ; his whole countenance had an 
air of authority. His hair in his youth was of a 
light color, but care, sorrow, and disappointment 
had turned it white as snow at thirty. He was 



CHRISTINA OVILARES. 25 

moderate and simple in his diet and apparel, elo- 
quent in discourse, engaging and affable to stran- 
gers, while his amiability and suavity in domestic 
life strongly attached his household to his person. 
His temper was naturally irritable, but he sub- 
dued it by the magnanimity of his spirit, comport- 
ing himself with a courteous and gentle gravity, 
and never indulging in any intemperance of lan- 
guage. Throughout life he was noted for his 
strict attention to the offices of religion, observ- 
ing rigorously the fasts and ceremonies of the 
Church ; nor did his pict}" consist in mere forms, 
but partook of that loft}' and solemn enthusiasm 
which characterized his life. 

At this period of the world's history the name 
of Columbus was not generally known, and Her- 
nando may be pardoned for never having heard 
of it before. Realizing that he was in the presence 
of a superior being, he became abashed and silent. 
The man with snow-white hair and beard, fixing 
his sad gray eyes on Hernando, said : 

" You had a narrow escape, lad ; never go so 
near the inner barrier again." 

"I will not, kind sir. I thank you for saving 
my life. When do yon go away ? " 

" How soon I know not. I am hei'e awaiting 
the arrival of a friend whom I daily expect." 

" Then you are a knight on your way to Gra- 
nada to fight the Moors ? " 



26 COLUMBIA. 

'* No, l;ul ; we go to try to sec tlic king and 
queen, who arc so occupied with this Moorish 
conquest that they will scarce consult with even 
the noblest in the land on any other topic than 
war. You must go to your parents; your father 
will be anxious about you." 

"Alas! I have no father." 

"Then he is dead?" 

" No, good sir, but lost. My father, wrongfully 
accused by liis brother and a wicked Moor, was 
ordered by the king to be arrested, and he sailed 
away across the sea to save his life. M}^ mother 
used to tell me of lands far away across the sea 
where dwell peo])le savage and cruel, who have 
made a slave of my fatlier, and at times I fancy I 
can hear him sliriek and groan in bondage. I am 
going to him some day." 

Columbus, strangely moved by the simple nar- 
rative, with a choking sigh answered : 

"You are too young to think of such a voyage, 
huh But your mother must be a good, wise 
woman; go home to her and assure her of your 
safety." 

"My mother is dead." 

" She, too, dead ! Oh, how sad ! " 

" She died many years ago, when I was quite 
young, and I })lant flowers twice a year at the 
head of her grave. My last promise made her 
was that my father should be found and released 



CHRISTINA VILA RES. 27 

from bondage. I live with granddamc Scnora 
Doria, in the little cottage beyond the hills." 

Columbus felt strangely drawn toward this 
bright lad whose life he had saved. Conducting 
him to the crest of the hill, he bade him adieu, 
and, drawing his cloak about his shoulders, he 
stood and watched the lad hasten down the rocks 
and ravines to his humble cottage. 

Hernando found his granddame in a wild state 
of excitement and grief. Alberto had preceded 
him, and, not knowing that his young companion 
had been rescued, was telling how the bull had 
tossed Hernando up in the air again and again, 
goring him to death with his sharp horns. The 
boy's vivid imagination, and his fondness for ex- 
aggeration, made his story so plausible that when 
Hernando entered the cottage he was received like 
one come back from the dead. 

His granddame caught him in her arms, the 
tears streaming down her aged cheeks, while she 
blessed her patron saint that the boy was spared. 

For several days she would hardly allow him 
to go from her side ; but anon, as the recollection of 
his late adventure grew dim and blunt with time, 
the restless youth was again permitted to roam 
among the woods and hills where his unhappy 
childhood had been spent. 

Hernando was a lover of beautiful scenery, and 
with such a broad j)lay ground as Andalusia, it 



2R OOL UMBIA. 

is no wonder that ho pined when in the cottage, 
jiloasant as the granddanie made his liome. Spain 
has always been noted for its charming scenery. 
In the loveliest atmosphere in tluMvorld, rose vast 
ranges of serrated, rudd y-peak i^< 1 n lou iitai ns to greet 
the gaze of the boy every morning, while between 
were delicious valleys, sometimes opening on an 
azure estuary of the purple-watered sea, in the dis- 
tance, locked in by mountain domes nearly twelve 
thousand feet in lieight, piercing the air with 
]>enetrating and perennial coolness. The rivers 
sent their sluggish or silver torrents, according to 
the season, through a country which expanded 
before his young gaze into picturesque vegas over- 
flowing with wild olive, cili'on, eopcr-bush, the 
aloe, the cactus, the palm, lemon, orange, and 
evergreen oak, the silk-festooned mulberry, the 
snowy cotton and bending cane; now shooting up 
into cliffs of dazzling height, surmounted by dra- 
fjon-like castles. 

^riiough born and reared amid such scenery, it 
never grew old to Hernando, and, enwrapped as 
it was in a halo o[ mythical history, one cannot 
wonder lluit it became strangely blended with his 
line poetic imagination. Even the wind sighing 
among the peaks, or rushing down the valleys, 
seemed to him the voice of an exiled father call- 
ing for help. 

It was an age as romantic as the scenery. 



CHRISriNA O VI LARES. 29 

Moor and Christian roamed alternately through 
bill, valley, and plain. The peaceful landscape 
of to-day might be a field of carnage on the 
morrow. One week the vermilion towers of 
the Alhambra rose envelo})ed in light and per- 
fume, in aromatic gardens, in fountains and 
filigrced courts, in sparkling arabesques, in 
precious tranquillity, wherein the golden voice 
of Arabian verse breathed forth its plaintive 
and mocking whispers; thc^ next, the blood-red 
illumination burned over the ensanguined tur- 
rets, and the din of ai'ins, the clangor of the 
sackbuts and cyml^als, the flash of furious 
cimeters, and the blaze of the assassin and in- 
cendiary sparkled and resounded through its 
tempest-tossed spaces. 

City, village, and lonely valley were alike sid)- 
ject to invasion, and peasant and noble lived in 
constant dread. 

As Hernando was wending liis way around a 
rocky cliff, the sun's rays flashed from a weapon. 
Crouching close to the earth, he discovered four 
Moors on horseback riding down the glen. Only 
the rugged bluff hid his little home from view, 
and the near proximity of these brigands alarmed 
the lad. The village of Palos was a league away, 
and they might destroy the cottage ere help could 
come. Ilalf a mile farther around the foot-hill 
would bring them in sight of the cottage. 



30 COLUMIUA. 

( )iu' of tlu'iii (.'.un-iod ;i child on his liorsc, und 
I I(Mii;ui(h), ^re.it as the distance was, saw that the 
child w:is a white ji^irl, not over tcMi years of \v^{.\ 
who was a pi'isoiicr, for she was iic(| on the horse. 

" TIk^ *1(''S'^/' hissed the lad from his |)l;icc of 
eonceahniMit, "ai"(^ carrying,' the poor little caj>tive 
ofr to ()i';inad;i, to ht^ the slave; of llic inlidcl," ;uid 
his prond ('.'istilian Mood hoilcd with indi^^'uation. 

As the! Mooi's came riding down the valley, 
they wm'c^ somiM.iinc^s in |>lain view, ami j)art of 
the time hidden by the dense l\)lia<2:eo[ the orange 
or evergrc(Mi o;d<. Their horsc^s travelled slowly, 
and c\-cn from his dislniit point of observation 
llic li(>\' could set! that tlu; Moorish steeds were 
jadtMl from their long jonrnc^y. 

liikt! a, slender threiid of silver, a, stn^iin wound 
its S(M-|>entine wa\' along the vaJley, her(! appear- 
ing boldly, and tluM'c hiding from view amid the 
rich palms and alo(>s. 'I'hc small cavalcade reach- 
ing one of ihese graceful curves, which brought it 
into full \ iew from ilu; high clilT, callcMl a, halt, 
the lad watching them with great eagerness. 

The Moors dismounted, let their horses drink at 
the sti'cam, riMiiovcd the saddles, and seemed get- 
ting ready for an hour's rest. Curiosity, or ])er- 
haps a stronger feeling, overcame tlu^ lad's caution, 
and he ci-ept along the bInlV until he was within 
half a furlong of the Moors. His gaze became 
riveted on the tall, sinewy fellow, who wore a 



CITRTHTrNA OV I LARES. 31 

rcil turbiiii Jind scoirKHl Ic'idcr of tlic siiiidl biuid. 
Momentarily forgetting liis precaution, lie started 
half upriglit, hissing through Ids clinched teeth: 

"It is Abdallah the dog, who sent my fatlier 
into c\\ile." 

]5iit li(! bethought himself in iim(^ to escape dis- 
covery, and, crouching behind a bnnch of cactus, 
he gnashed his t(!eth as he beheld the author of 
all his family woe talking to the little prisoner. 
The child had been sobbing, and tJie brntal Moor 
was threatening her with a drawn cimeter. 

" '^riiey shall not drag her away to Granada or 
Aral)ia to live a life of slavery," gasped the brave 
lad, his soul rising with indignation at the thought. 

With mind mad(! up and purpose formed, he 
crawled back from the fac(! of the bluff until he 
was too fai" away to be; scjen by tli(5 Moors below, 
and, sj)ringing to his feet, he ran down the slope, 
along 1li(! tortuous path 1o the cottage. Tlis 
father's arquebus hung on the wall, and, as the 
lad knew how to load and fire it, his first thought 
was to secure it and shoot at the Moors from the 
top of the bluir, putting them to flight. 

Fortunately for the success of his })lan, his 
granddame was not in the cottage on Ids arrival. 
Clind)ing up the wall, he took down the match- 
lock, winch had grown rusty from long disuse. 
Then a new difliculty arose; there was neither 
powder nor slow-match, and the gun was worthless. 



32 COLUMBIA. 

" I can't use it, but there is father's cross-bow. 
It will do quite as well," he thought. 

Taking down the cross-bow and several iron- 
pointed bolts, Hernando examined the steel bow, 
the crank and string, and thought they would do. 
Like the arquebus, long disuse had made the 
cross-bow rusty. The lad had a small, sharp 
sword of his own, which he kept bright and in 
good condition ; for, young as he was, he had 
learned to handle it quite effectively. 

With sword and cross-bow he hastened back 
toward the bluff from whence he expected to 
make the attack. He halted ere he reached it, to 
wind up the bow and have it ready when he 
should come in sight of the Moors. Placing the 
muzzle on the ground, and taking the double 
crank in both hands, he began winding it up. 
His agitation, his anxiety, and nervousness doubt- 
less aided to bring about the disaster — the bow 
snapped in twain. 

"Saint Anthony ! What am I to do? " cried 
the lad. " Arquebus useless for lack of powder, 
and cross-bow broken." 

Overcome by his ill-fortune, he threw himself 
on the ground and wept from mortification. 
He heard not the tramp of feet nor clank of 
swords, nor did he see the two tall, powerful 
men who were coming down the path toward 
him. 



CHBT8TINA OVILABES. 



33 



A voice so near at hand as to startle the morti- 
fied lad said : 

" What's this before us ? — a lad and a broken 
cross-bow." 

" Is he slain, duke ? " 

, , The last voice sounded 

y^; familiar, and the boy 

AJj/' ^ sprang to his feet, mak- 




ing a great effort to dry his \ 
tears before the new-comers 
should discover his weakness. The last speaker 
was his rescuer at the Plaza de Toros, Christo- 
pher Columbus, and his companion a tall, power- 
ful man, with dark hair and whiskers. They 
wore breastplates, and had swords at their sides. 

" He seems alive," answered the dark-whiskered 
man. 

3 . . . 



,B4 COLUMBIA. 

" By the mass, it's my young acquaintance of 
the Plaza de Toros. — What has gone amiss, my 
lad? Your cross-bow is broken, and you have 
tears in your eyes." 

" Good seiior, I have enough to make a Christian 
lad die of mortification ; four infidel Moors are in 
the valley, beyond the spur of the mountain, with 
a child prisoner whom they are carrying into 
slavery. I brought my cross-bow to rescue her, 
but it broke in winding." 

" Why, Columbus, this is a gallant lad," said 
the tall, dark-whiskered man. 

"Duke Medina Celi, you are brave," answered 
Columbus, in a voice that was effective. " Heaven 
forbid we should let a Christian child be dragged 
into infidel slavery." 

" My good sword is ready," the duke replied, 
drawing his trusty blade. 

" Lad, lead the way," said the brave Columbus, 
while his own bright blade leaped from its scab- 
bard. 

" That I will, good seiior, and I pray Heaven 
that I may get a chance at the dog Abdallah." 

The boy led the way down the path to a place 
in the bluflf where the descent could be made 
without being seen by those below. Reaching the 
valley, tbey crept through a dense growth of ever- 
green oaks until they were within forty paces of 
the Moors, before they were discovered. 



CHRISTINA 0VILARE8. 35 

" Cbristiaiis, l)j Allah!" yelled Abdalluli, leaping 
to liis feet. 

There was no time for the use of bow, match- 
lock, or even the lance, for the Christians with 
drawn swords were too close, and time was only 
given to leap erect and snatch their ci meters. 

"Infidels, plunderers, thieves!" roared Medina 
Celi, dealing blows right and left with his trenchant 
blade. "Carry Christian children into slavery, 
will vou ? " 

Columbus was at his side, and, though they were 
two to four, they soon had the Moors hard pressed 
and retreating. 

" Abdallah, dog of a Moor ! " roared the angry 
lad, " this for my poor wronged father." And leap- 
ing forward, with his small keen sword he struck 
the Moor, who with another was fighting the duke, 
a blow on the side of his head. The blow was 
aimed so well, and delivered with such force, that 
the blade passed through the Mohammedan's bon- 
net, and cut away the upper part of his left ear, 
inflicting a wound on the side of his head. 

With a terrible yell, the Moor dropped his cim- 
eter, and, holding his hand on his bleeding ear, 
cried : 

" Hernando Estevan, I'll take vengeance on your 
father for this. I will find the slave and cut off 
both his ears." 

The boy was too much dumfounded by this 



36 COLUMBIA. 

Statement to follow up the advantage he had 
gained, and allowed the Moor to escape. The 
duke was a shrewd knight, and, taking advantage 
of the momentary confusion of his remaining 
adversary, he beat down his guard, and ran him 
through the body. 

Seeing his companion fall, Abdallah gave utter- 
ance to a yell of rage and fear, and fled. Medina 
Celi sprang to the aid of Columbus, who was fight- 
ing the other two, and they, finding everything 
against them, also fled. 

"My lord duke, it has been an easy victory," 
said Columbus. 

"Hadn't we better give the infidels chase?" 
asked the duke, burning with anxiety to cut down 
the remaining rascals. 

" No ; see, they are mounting their Arabian 
steeds, while we are on foot," returned Columbus. 
" Let us look after the child — see who she is, and 
what injury has been done her." ' 

The prisoner was a modest little thing, her 
cheeks very pale, and her eyes swimming with 
tears, which silently rolled down her cheeks. 
Hernando was already at her side, soothing her 
with the assurance that there was no further 
danger. 

" Sweet child, weep no more," said Columbus, 
his kind face beaming with pity. " Your captors, 
save he that was slain, have fled." 



CHRISTINA 0VILARE8. 37 

She still continued to sob, with grief rather 
tlian fear ; and Columbus, being eager to know her 
story, sat on a stone, and taking her, as a father 
would, on his knee, said : 

" Little one, tell me your name." 

" Christina Ovilares," was answered, between 
sobs. 

" Where is your home, Christina ? " 

" Alas ! I have none. I did live three leagues 
hence with my old grandfather ; my mother being 
dead, and my father slain in battle." 

" And where is your grandfather, sweet child." 

" He, too, is dead ; the Moors attacked our cot- 
tage this morning, slew him, burned our home, 
and carried me away." 

Overcome by the narration of her own sad 
story, the child broke down and sobbed bitterly. 

" Have you no relatives? " asked Columbus. 

" None." 

" Nor friends, nor home ? " 

" None, sen or." 

" My lord duke, here is a worthy object of 
charity. What shall we do with her ? I have 
no home to offer her." 

" Granddame and I have room in our cottage 
for her, and she shall come and live with us," 
interrupted Hernando ere the duke could speak. 

Columbus and the duke exchanged glances, 
and then the former said : 



38 COL UMBIA. 

" It's best that can be done." 

" I agree with you, senor. Let us guard them 
to the cottage, and see that another attack is not 
made by the Moors." 

" Little fear of that," Columbus answered. 
" The infidel dogs have learned a lesson." Point- 
ing to the Moor who had just fallen, he added : 
" We must give him Christian burial." 

" Let us care for the living first, and give safe- 
conduct home to the lad and child ; then will be 
time enough to look after the dead." 

As they started up the cliff, the three Moors 
were discovered among the trees not a hundred 
paces down the valley. One of them had dis- 
mounted, and placing the rest of his arquebus on 
the ground, was aiming at them when discovered. 
He applied the slow-match, and there was a whiff 
of smoke, a stunning report, and a stone bullet 
struck the breastplate of Columbus, causing him 
to stagger. 

" Are you hurt, senor? " asked the duke. 

" No, no ; my good breastplate saved me. Let 
us get cross-bows or hand-guns, and pursue the 
infidel dogs." 

" It's no use, senor," cried the lad, 

"Why?" 

" Behold ! some knights from Navarre are 
coming." 

Waving plumes, polished helmets, and glittering 



CHRISTINA 0VILARE8. 39 

lances flashed up the valley. A score of mailed 
knights, no doubt in pursuit of this predatory- 
band of Mussulmans, came galloping down the 
valley. 

" Pi-aj God they may not be too late," j)ut in 
the duke. 

" They see them," cried Columbus. 

"Ay, the Moors know their danger," the lad 
gasped. " See bow they mount and fly," 

The knights spurred their horses at the top of 
their speed, and flew like the wind down the road, 
after the Moors. 

From their elevated position, our friends 
watched the chase for miles. It was a race for 
life. The Moors threw away their hand-guns 
and lances, even their cimeters, in fact everything 
that would hinder their flight, and spared not 
their horses in the wild race. By this means they 
increased the distance between themselves and 
their pursuers. 

" Take the child to your home, lad ; you can 
now go in safety, for the Moors have been driven 
from the valley," said Columbus, 

" Will not the good senors come — and " 

" No, lad ; it's better we wait and meet the 
knights on their return; besides, the slain, infidel 
though he be, must have decent burial." 

Strongly impressed with a strange new and 
great responsibility, Hernando took the child's 



40 COLUMBIA. 

little trembling hand in his own, and led her down 
the rugged path to their cottage. The humble 
home, half buried in evergreens, with the great 
blue bay beyond, was lovely in its picturesque 
rusticity. Pausing when in sight of his cottage, 
Hernando said: 

"I like you already," 

She made no answer ; but a grateful expression 
came over that little pale face, and he resumed : 
" Granddame will love you, too, and you must 
weep no more," 

When they reached the cottage, the seiiora was 
amazed at the story her grandson had to tell. 
She took the little girl in her arms, kissed away 
her tears, and assured her she should have a home 
with them as long as they lived. Christina's little 
heart was too full for utterance, and, throwing her 
small arms about the good old senora's neck, she 
sobbed for joy. 



CHAPTER III. 

THE MADMAN OF GENOA. 

Hernando gave bis warmest sympathies to 
the little girl whom he had aided in saving from 
a life of slavery and degradation. Like himself, 
she was an orphan, both having suffered from the 
same cause, and it was only natural that his heart 
should go out toward her. As two buds remain- 
ing on different trees of the same kind, after the 
tempest has broken all their branches, produce 
more delicious fruit if each, separated from the 
maternal stem, be engrafted on the neighboring 
tree ; so these two children, deprived of all their 
relations, early imbibed feelings of affection more 
tender than brother and. sister. They soothed each 
other's cares, and proved a constant consolation to 
each other. When Hernando, low in spirit, sat 
by the sea-side listening to the moaning of a cap- 
tive father far away across the great ocean, she 
whispered words of hope and comfort in his ear. 
If Christina in any of their rambles stumbled and 
fell, he was always first to raise her to her feet 
and whisper words of tender sympathy. 

Rarely indeed has such an attachment been 
known as that which these children early evinced 



42 COLUMBIA. 

for each other. If Hernando was hurt or in pain, 
a sight of Christina brought a smile of happiness 
to his face, and sorrow and pain were forgotten. 
If any accident befell Christina, the cries of Her- 
nando gave notice of the disaster ; but the dear 
little creature would suppress her complaints, if 
she found he was unhappy. 

Many days after their first meeting were passed 
like a beautiful dawn, the prelude of a bright day. 
They were of great assistance to the old senora 
in her household duties. As soon as the crowing 
of the wakeful cock announced the approach of 
dawn, Christina arose, shook out her curls, and 
hastened to the neighboring spring for water; 
then, returning to the house, prepared the break- 
fast. When the rising sun gilded the distant 
mountain-peaks, they offered up their morning 
prayer together, a ceremony which always pre- 
ceded their first repast, which they often took 
before the door of the cottage, seated upon the 
grass, under a canopy of palms. Plentiful and 
wholesome nourishment gave early growth and 
vigor to these children, and their countenances 
expressed the peace and purity of their souls. 

So early does beauty develop in Spain that, 
though only ten years of age, Christina's figure 
was in some degree formed. A profusion of light 
hair shaded her face, to which her soft brown, 
gazelle-like eyes and coral lips gave the most 



THE MADMAN OF GENOA. 



43 



charming brilliancy. Her eyes sparkled with vi- 
vacity when she spoke, but when in repose they 
habitually tarned upward with an expression of 
tender melancholy. 

Hernando, who was 
over three years her 
senior, had already be- 
gun to display graces 
of youthful beauty. He 
was taller than Chris- 
tina, his skin of a darker 
tint, his nose more aqui- 
line, and his black eyes 
would have been too 
piercing, if the long eye- 
lashes by which they 
were shaded had not im- 
parted to them an ex- 
pression of softness, of- 
ten amounting to mel- 
ancholy. 

They delighted to 
wander alone, hand in 
hand, over rocks and 
hills and through shady glens, conversing in their 
soft Spanish tongues, or sit by the sea-side watch- 
ing the rising swells gathering in force and power, 
until the surging, rolling wave broke in crested 
splendor on the cold gray stones beneath. It 




Christina Ovilabes. 



44 GOL UMBIA. 

was on such occasions that the lad would fancy 
he heard the enchained captive shriek in agony, 
and implore him to come to his rescue. He 
told her the story of his father over and over 
again, and while Christina could not willingly 
give up her new-found friend and brother, she 
would say nothing to deter him from his mission. 

One day as they sat on the sea-shore listening 
to the moaning waves, Christina descried a sail 
in the distance. They watched the snowy speck 
grow larger, and at last the small craft entered 
the little harbor, and a man disembarked, and 
fi'om the course he took was evidently bending 
his steps toward the village. 

"I know him," the lad whispered, as the sun- 
light fell on his noble features and snow-white 
hair. " It is our good friend, Senor Columbus." 

Both sprang to their feet and ran across the 
bit of rocky headland, so as to intercept the 
sti'anger. Eecognizing them, he paused, and with 
a smile on his benevolent face awaited their ap- 
proach. 

" My good children, it gives me joy to witness 
3^our happiness," he said, as they came up with 
him. 

" We have you to thank for joy, life, and hap- 
piness," Hernando answered. " We came to greet 
you, good senor, and invite you to our cottage 
hard by, that our granddame may thank you. 



THE MADMAN OF GENOA. 45 

and accord jou sucli hospitality as our poor cot- 
tage affords." 

" I can't go, lad," Columbus answered, his face 
growing grave. " I am to meet the Duke Medina 
Celi at the castle beyond the village." 

" The same grand man who fought so nobly for 
Christina. You are fortunate in having sucli 
friends." 

" Fortunate! Ah, boy, my life is full of bitter 
disappointment, and, were my work done, how 
gladly would I lay it down," answered Columbus, 
with a sad shake of the head. " But no," he 
added almost immediately, as if starting from a 
painful revery, " I am called of Heaven to rescue 
the Holy Sepulchre from the infidel. To do it, I 
must find the treasures described by Marco Polo 
beyond the seas, and raise an army for that pur- 
pose." 

The boy only partially comprehended him. 
The sage's eye lit with pious enthusiasm, and his 
cheek glowed with rapture. The children gazed 
on him in mingled awe and admiration, regarding 
him in the light of one inspired. 

"Do you really mean to cross the sea? " Her- 
nando asked. 

" I do. God has commanded me, and I must 
obey. Reason and science tell of a land over 
there, where a mighty people, greater and more 
powerful than the nations we know, dwell ; and, 



46 COLUMBIA. 

though the wise may call me mad, I will find 
them. My hair has whitened, and my frame 
grown old, in cherishing this thought. For twenty 
years I have plead witli kings and princes for 
authority and means to prosecute my voyage, but 
have been denied. All things come to those who 
learn to wait, and as Heaven has spared my life I 
am convinced I shall yet succeed." 

Columbus, in reality, never doubted his final 
success. Being of a religious turn of mind, and 
feeling assured that God had ordained him for 
this special work, even in the midst of his keenest 
disappointments he never gave up in utter despair. 
Daily he prayed for success and strength to sur- 
mount every difficulty in the wa}^ to the discovery 
of a new world. He prayed that each defeat and 
disappointment might only strengthen him to re- 
newed energy. What man with such determina- 
tion could fail ? No gate stands barred to him 
who works with the tools of patience in the light 
of understanding. 

The children watched him wending his way 
over the hills until projecting rocks shut him out 
from view, and then the}' hurried homeward. 

Next day Hernando went to Palos, and on en- 
tering the village he heard shouts and cries from 
a crowd of idle boys. As he hastened around a 
corner to learn the cause of their merriment, his 
quick ear caught such cries as : 



THE MADMAN OF GENOA. 47 

" Madman of Genoa ! " 

"Ho, ho! do jour antipodes walk on their 
heads?" 

"And do trees grow with tops down ? " 

" Pray, wise senor, how do your people stay on 
the earth and not fall off ? " 

" And won't your seas pour out ? " 

A rollicking crowd of vagabonds, sailors, thieves, 
and smugglers followed a tall, stately man, whose 
snow-white hair and sad demeanor demanded a 
higher respect than the taunts and jeers he re- 
ceived. Even smaller children joined the pi'oces- 
sion and pointed at their foreheads as the grand 
man, unmoved by their jests and sallies of wit, 
walked along the street. Under his arm he car- 
ried a bundle of maps and charts, for Columbus 
was a meditative cosmographer, perpetually brood- 
ing over the sinuous lines of his sea drawings, by 
the sale of which he was enabled to eke out a 
miserable existence. 

The lad, recognizing his friend and rescuer thus 
exposed to taunts and insults, grew furious with 
rage, and, leaping to his side, turned on the mob 
and cried : 

" For shame, cowards ! How dare you insult 
so good and so great a man ? " At which the troop 
of vagabonds roared in derision. 

Columbus laid his hand on the boy's head, and 
said : 



48 COLUMBIA. 

"Peace, lad ; say no more." 

" They shall not insult mj preserver," Hernando 
answered, his eyes filling with tears. 

With a sweet, forgiving smile, indicating how 
far above the average malicious, revengeful man 
he was, Columbus took tlie boy's hand in his own, 
and said : 

"Come with me." 

As a father would lead a child, he conducted 
him to the same public-house where they Lad been 
on the day of the bull-fight ; the mob, hooting and 
jeering, followed them almost to the door. In an 
apartment where they would not be interrupted, 
Columbus sat down, the lad at liis side, and said : 

" I want to talk with you, Hernando, and I pray 
you to think nothing more of that foolish rabble. 
I have grown accustomed to their sneei's. You 
are young and impulsive : so once was T, but time 
and long suffering have changed me. But for the 
fact that I am called of Heaven, and cannot resist 
the promptings of the voice within, I should have 
long ago believed that I was mad. If I be mad, so 
were the great writers whose works I have studied. 
In Plato's Atlantis we read of the country of 
which Marco Polo tells us. If I am mad, so too 
were they ; but God and reason tell me they are 
true." 

" And you believe them?" asked the boy. 

" I do. I have seen the maps furnished by Paulo 



THE MADMAN OF GENOA. 49 

Toscanelli, made from the original maps of Marco 
Polo and Ptolemy." 

" But those countries, if there are such coun- 
tries across the sea, are probably peopled by wild, 
fierce creatures." 

" There may be many wild and curious people 
beyond the sea, but we shall also find a grand 
country. A world exists there far surpassing 
ours, and it is to bring our people in closer relation 
with that world, and to discover new countries for 
our king and queen, that I propose to risk my 
life on this voyage. 

" The city of Kanbalu, in the province of 
Cathay, is twenty-four miles square, and the 
manufactures and merchandise brought there are 
enough to supply the universe." 

" Tell me all about it, please," the boy cried, 
his eyes beaming wild with enthusiasm; and Co- 
lumbus, who never tired of the subject, resumed : 

" Here precious stones are to be seen in abund- 
ance, the pearls, the silks, and divers perfumes of 
the East. Scarce a day passes without the arrival 
of a thousand cars laden with silk." 

"And the palace of the Grand Khan is there 
too. What a magnificent building it must be ! " 
cried the boy, his dark eyes sparkling with interest. 

'" The Grand Khan's palace is a group of palaces 
four miles in circuit. The interior is resplendent 
with gold and silver, and in it are guarded the 
4 



50 COLUMBIA. 

precious vases and jewels of the sovereign. All 
the appointments of the Grand Khan for war, for 
the chase, and various festivities with which he is 
wont to amuse himself, are too gorgeous for our 
description." 

" How wonderful ! " 

" Wonderful as they are, the province of Cathay 
is far inferior to Mangi. It contains twelve hun- 
dred cities." 

The boy was dumb with amazement, and Co- 
lumbus, warming up with his theme, went on : 

" Quinsai, the capital," Marco Polo says, " is the 
city of heaven. He was in the city, examined it 
diligently, and affirms it to be the largest in the 
world, for it is one hundred miles in circuit. Like 
Venice, it is built on little islands, and has twelve 
thousand stone bridges, the arches of which are so 
high that the largest vessels pass under them with- 
out having to lower a mast. It has three thousand 
baths and six hundred thousand families. It 
abounds with magnificent houses, and has a lake 
within its walls thirty miles in circumference, on 
the banks of wbich are the superb palaces of peo- 
ple of rank. Mangi was conquered by the Great 
Khan, who divided it into nine kingdoms, and 
appointed a tributary king over each. He draws 
an immense revenue from it, for the country 
abounds in gold and silver, sugar, spices, and 
perfumes." 



THE 31 A OMAN OF GENOA. 51 

" Why don't you gb there ? " asked the boy. 

" No one will help me," was the answer. " My 
argument is unheeded, for some don't believe the 
world is round. I have brought to bear my best 
argument, and told them, over and over again, 
that by the compass we can now sail unknown 
seas, and with the astrolabe, by the altitude, de- 
termine our distance from the equator. There's a 
world of wealth and grandeur awaiting the bold 
discoverer." 

It was on such airy basis as the stories related 
by Columbus to his young friend that the great 
discoverer built his hopes and theories of a new, 
undiscovered world. Many other wild stories of 
a land beyond the unknown sea were going the 
rounds. Pieces of wood, strangely carved, had 
been borne in by the tide ; two dead bodies of an 
unknown race were said to have drifted on one of 
the Canaries. The inhabitants of these far west- 
ern isles declared that islands could be seen still 
west of them ; and so firm were they in the belief 
that they asked permission of the king of Portu- 
gal to discover and take possession of them. 

The minds of the people were full of wild, fan- 
tastic notions of this imaginary land. Some sup- 
posed it to be the Antilla mentioned by Aristotle ; 
others, the island of Seven Cities — so called from 
an ancient legend of seven bishops, who, with a 
multitude of followers, fled from Spain at the 



62 GOL UMBIA. 

time of the Moorish conquest, and, guided by 
Heaven to some unknown island on the ocean, 
founded on it seven splendid cities. Others 
thought the island seen the legendary island of 
St. Brandon, named after a Scottish priest whom 
tradition said had gone away and established an 
empire on some unknown island, about the year 
A.D. 688. 

Whether Columbus believed all these stories or 
not, he knew that bold explorers had begun to . 
navigate the unknown ocean, and that his new 
world could not long remain undiscovered. 

"Have you asked anyone to help you?" in- 
quired the boy, after the narrator had paused in 
his recital of the wonders of the new world. 

" Yes, many, and I still ask. I am here to 
meet the Duke of Medina Celi, who was with me 
on the day we rescued the little girl. Some time 
ago he entertained me at his house, listened with 
the ear of conviction to my projects, and was once 
on the point of granting three or four caravels, 
when he changed his mind, thinking such impor- 
tant discoveries belonged to some monarch who 
could take possession of them." 

"Have you explained j^our plans to any mon- 
archs ? " 

" I applied to King John of Portugal ; he 
listened to all I had to say, gained all my points 
of information, and, while I was awaiting his 



THE 3IADMAN OF GENOA. 53 

decision, sent a fleet on the very course I had laid 
down. Thej failed, for Heaven will never reward 
such treachery, and I quitted King John," 

" Have 3'ou tried Ferdinand and Isabella?" 

" Tliey are too busy. Conquest and expulsion of 
the infidel occupies their time, and though I have 
again and again been promised an audience with 
them, I have again and again been disappointed, 
'Hope deferred rnaketh the heart sick,' and oh, 
how often have I been sick at heart I Did I not 
know that Heaven had ordained me for this work, 
I would have abandoned it years ago. Falsehood, 
perfidy, arid swindles of people in high places, 
disappointments and shattered hopes, turned my 
hair white at thirty. During all these years, I 
bave been exposed to continual scoffs and indig- 
nities, such as yoLi have witnessed to-day ; being 
ridiculed by the ignorant as a dreamer, and stig- 
matized by the illiberal as an adventurer. The 
very children point to their foreheads as I pass, 
and call me the madman of Genoa." 

" Will you give up the project ? " 

"Give it up ! I cannot. Had not Heaven called 
me to this work, I must have died of a broken 
heart years ago ; but, being called of God, I cannot 
die until it is accomplished. Through my friends 
the duke and Alonzo de Quintilla I have been 
enabled to gain the countenance of Pedro Gonza- 
lez de Mendoza, Arclibishop of Toledo, and Grand 



54 COL UMBIA. 

Cardinal of Spain; These liave made an interces- 
sion with the monarchs, and a conncil of the wisest 
men in Spain is to be held in Salamanca, before 
which conncil I am to appear and state my theories, 
and they will make report to the royal princes 
now lighting with the Moors."' 

" Then why are you not hopeful ? For surely 
they will become convinced." 

" There is little to be hopeful for. They are 
men wise in their own conceit, and as my theories 
will conflict with their own set notions, I feel 
that they will be rejected as impractical. I have 
learned bitter lessons from men theoretically wise." 

"I thought you said you would succeed." 

" In the end I will, but I fear not with them. 
There may be years of disappointments, shattered 
hopes, and heart-aches yet in store for me ere 
success crowns my efforts. But God's will can- 
not be balked, and He sends me on this mission." 

" Sefior," cried the boy, suddenly, seizing the 
hand of Columbus in botb his own, while his eyes 
sparkled with a new, strange hope, " make me a 
promise." 

"What?" 

" I told vou the story of mv father." 

"You did." 

" I want to go with you on your voyage to the 
new world." 

" Child, you know not what you ask." 



THE MADMAN OF GENOA. 65 

" I do, good seiior. I too am called of Heaven 
to rescue a captive father. I must go, for I feel 
that you cannot succeed without me." 

Columbus gazed on the fresh, honest young 
face and black, flashing eyes, and dared not say 
he spoke an untruth. After a moment's thought 
he answered : 

" On one condition only can you go." 

" Name the condition." 

"You must gain the consent of your grand- 
dame. I have a son of your age. I would not 
take him with me, and I begin to love you almost 
as much as if you were a son. Under no condi- 
tions would I consent for you to be exposed to the 
dangers and hardships of such a vo^^age, did I 
not believe that you, as well as I, are called of 
Heaven." 

The lad was jubilant, yet he felt a i)ang at 
thought of leaving Christina and the granddame, 
who had been so kind to him, but home attach- 
ments could not conflict with duty. On ascertain- 
ing that Columbus was to soon set out for Sala- 
manca, he exacted a ])romisc from him, that, should 
he gain his granddame's consent, he could accom- 
pany him. 

On his return Hernando found the senora busy 
with her household duties, Christina assisting her. 
The expression of happiness on the pretty face of 
Christina increased as Hernando approached. He 



56 COLUMBIA. 

dared not tell the granddame until he had con- 
fided the matter to Christina : so he took her aside 
and told her all. 

"Then you will go away?" and the pretty face 
grew so sad that he kissed her again and again, 
and assured her that, when his father was found, 
he would return and never leave her side. Then 
together they returned to the granddame, where 
Hernando told all, and concluded with: 

"Can I go?" 

" No," was the prompt answer, 

" Granddame, don't you know how my father 
calls to me from across the sea ? Oh, will you not 
let me go to him?" 

"Go away, child. You are mad to think of 
such a thing." 

He quitted the cottage, and wandered to the lit- 
tle glen by the sea, where he sank down upon the 
mossy bank of a brooklet, and burying his face in 
his hands, burst into a flood of tears. He had 
sobbed there but a short time when a pair of light 
feet came skipping over the rocks, a fairy-like 
being bent over the sad youth, and a pair of ga- 
zelle-like eyes, beaming from out a profusion of 
golden curls, were on him. Christina, who always 
shared his troubles, had come to weep with him 
over his disappointment. 

The old senora was ill at ease at having refused 
the lad's request. She imbibed all the supersti- 



THE MADMAN OF GENOA. 57 

tions of the age, and believed that the boy had 
heard the spirit of his father calling him to come 
to his rescue across the waters. All the afternoon 
her mind dwelt on the subject, and when she went 
to bed at night it was the last thought of her 
waking moments. 

In sleep it did not leave her, for scarce was she 
locked in slumber ere her dreaming fancy, look- 
ing out across the broad ocean to the westward, 
saw a mighty light flash over the sea. She seemed 
transported to the shores of an unknown land, 
where strange, gnome-like figures with hard, cruel 
faces met her on every hand. Amid the cries of 
slaves and clank of chains she beheld Hernando's 
father. 

Oh, how changed! Years of slaver}^ and suffer- 
ing had worn him away to a skeleton, and fixing 
his agonized eyes on her, he groaned : 

" Why do you withhold from me my only hope 
of release from a living death? " 

The senora awoke with a shriek, and such an 
impression did the dream have upon her that next 
morning she said : 

" Hernando, I saw vour father last night in a 
vision, and I will now consent for you to go with 
Sehor Columbus to the New World and release 
him from a living death." 

With a cry of joy he embraced the granddame 
and Christina, who tried hard to conceal the grief 



58 COLUMBIA. 

she felt at loss of her brother. Noticing the cloud 
on Christina's face, he said : 

" Who will care for her when I am gone? " 

"That will be nij duty," the granddame an- 
swered. 

That very day Hernando went to Palos, where 
he found Columbus, and told him all. Placing 
his hand on the boy's head, the great man ex- 
claimed : 

" Henceforth our destinies are one. We go in a 
double cause, which must have a single result. 
Both of us are called of Heaven, and both will in 
the end receive Heaven's reward." 



CHAPTER lY. 

THE WISE MEN OF SALAMANCA. 

About a league from Salamanca, once the great 
seat of learning of Spain, the road winds about 
among hills, mountains, and picturesque passes in 
graceful serpentine curves, presenting a constant 
and varied sc^ne of beauty. 

The sun had not beeu an hour in the sky when 
a man arid boy, each mounted on a mule, came 
slowly jogging along this tortuous path. As the 
distant towers of Salamanca loom up into view, the 
face of the tired lad grows brighter in anticipation 
of reaching the end of a long, fatiguing journey. 

" We'll soon be there, seflor," spoke Hernando, 
pointing toward the tall spires and steeples of the 
old Dominican Convent of St. Stephen's, where 
they were to be entertained during the conference. 
In the hall of the convent Columbus was to 
appear before the great body of theologians and 
philosophers, to expound his new theories. 

" Yes, we'll soon be there," the great man an- 
swered. 

" And you will convince them, I know." 

The white head of the wnse man shook some- 
what dubiously, as he answered : 



60 COLUMBIA. 

" False logic more often convinces than sound. 
I feel impressed that I am not understood, and 
justice cannot be given mv plans until I have 
shaken the throne with them. Men with set no- 
tions cannot be moved." And Columbus bowed 
his head thoughtfully. 

He was not of a despondent nature ; a man of 
grave, earnest demeanor, but far from possessing 
a melancholy temperament. On that journey he 
had travelled for hours in silence, buried in 
thought. Being called of Heaven for this special 
work, it is not to be wondered that his thoughts 
were beyond those of mortal ken. Hernando, 
being naturally quiet, seldom disturbed his medi- 
tations. His own sad thoughts checked the nat- 
ural overflow of his childish spirits. Added to 
the one great shadow that had fallen on his young 
life — the unknown fate of his father — was the re- 
gret at leaving Christina and the granddame. 

Reaching Salamanca, they went at once to the 
old Dominican Convent of St. Stephen, where 
they were to be lodged and entertained during the 
course of the examination. 

At this period in the world's history religion 
and science were closely associated in Spain. The 
treasures of learning were immured in monasteries, 
and the professors' chairs filled from the cloister. 
The clergy dominated over the State as well as 
Church, and, with the exception of hereditary 



THE WISE MEN OF SALAMANCA. 61 

nobles, posts of honor and influence at court were 
almost entirely confined to the ecclesiastics. 

Columbus and his young companion were met 
at the gate by a sleek, smiling old friar, who 
greeted them with : 

"Welcome to this holy convent; you have 
journeyed a Jong distance, judging from thq dust 
on your garments, and you stand in need of rest." 

" Our journey has been fatiguing," Columbus 
answered. 

" And may the saints be praised that you were 
not assailed by the infidel Moors." 

The very thought of the Moors caused the friar 
to pause a moment, ci'oss himself, and pray that 
the marauding infidel might be driven from the 
land of the Christian. 

" It is coming, too," he added. " Our good 
sovereigns are gaining all the while, and ere long 
Granada must fall." 

" I pray Heaven it may," Columbus devoutly 
answered. 

Entering the court, servants came to take the 
mules away to their stalls. The good friar, strok- 
ing the boy's head, turned to Columbus and asked : 

" Is the bright lad your son ? " 

" He is an orphan, a noble lad whom I love 
almost as if he were my son." 

" Ay, may he find a father in you. I will take 
you to your apartments, where you will find food 



62 COLUMBIA. 

and wine, and jou must have rest, for the confer- 
ence begins its session to-morrow. The junto is 
ah-eadj^ assembling." 

The boy carefully watched the face of Columbus 
to see if the intelligence produced any change, but 
the explorer expressed neither fear nor pleasure 
at the announcement. His face was grave, grand, 
and noble, as it always was, but dignified and 
unmoved as if carved from marble. Passing be- 
neath the portals of the grand old convent, they 
entered the chamber set apart for them. When 
dinner was served, Hernando was hungry, for the 
journey had given him a keen appetite ; but Colum- 
bus was so full of his great subject that he ate 
slowly and sparingly. 

All that day they saw no one save their attend- 
ant, and Hernando, being wearied, was urged to 
retire early in the evening. When the lad closed 
his eyes in sleep, Columbus still sat at a table 
poring over his charts and arranging his thoughts 
for the grand discussion that was to come on the 
morrow. Whether he slept any that night or 
not, the world will perhaps never know, but when 
the lad awoke, the sun was rising, and the great 
cosmographer still sat poring over his books, 
maps, and charts. 

Kising, Hernando dressed, and going to the side 
of his benefactor, asked : 

" Have you slept at all ? " 



THE WISE 31 EN OF SALAMANCA. 63 

" I am ready now to present mj cause," was the 
answer. 

Instinctively Columbus knew that lie was tbat 
day to enter upon the greatest struggle of his life. 
The so-called learned men before whose august 
presence lie was to present his scheme were super- 
stitious bigots, more ready to find flaws in his 
logic than to see gems of truth. He took a bath, 
ate a light breakfast, and got ready for the unequal 
contest. 

" Can I go with you ? " asked the boy. 

" Is it your wish ? " 

" Yes." 

" The chances of success are small." 

" Why do you say so ? " 

" I believe that the greater part of the learned 
junto are already prepossessed against me," 

" From what cause ? " 

" I am neither rich nor of noble blood, and men 
in jilace and dignity are apt to be prejudiced 
against poor applicants. They already consider 
me as a kind of delinquent or impostor whose 
faults are to be detected and exposed. Again, I 
am only an obscure navigator, a member of no 
learned institution, destitute of all the trappings 
and circumstances which are thought necessary 
to make one worthy of consideration. But if this 
day is to be one of humiliation, come and be a 
witness to it." 



64 • COLUMBIA. 

What a striking spectacle the hall of the old 
convent presented on this memorable occasion! 
The learning and wisdom of Spain were there 
assembled to listen to the theories and vagaries of 
an unknown man. 

Upon a dais at one end of the hall sat the 
learned junto, looking \ery grave, serious, and 
wise. On entering the hall in the presence of the 
assembled wisdom of Spain, the unknown navi- 
gator paused a moment and gazed on the assembly 
to search their faces, and, if possible, read their 
thoughts. In the eyes of one or two he saw 
marks of sympathy ; in others, interest, or rather 
curiosity ; while he read in a majority of the junto 
only unyielding prejudice. He was dressed neatly 
but plainly, and his snow-white hair and beard 
gave to him a patriarchal appearance. He held 
Hernando's hand in his left, and carried a bundle 
of maps and charts under his right arm. 

The appearance of the junto was so much more 
favorable than he had expected that Columbus 
stooped and whispered to the lad : 

"It is not so bad as I had anticipated." 

Columbus was modest yet self-possessed, neither 
dazzled nor daunted by the awful presence of so 
much learning. Never had a more imposing 
scene been presented in the old convent. A sim- 
ple, unknown mariner standing before an array of 
professors, friars, and dignitaries of the Church, to 



THE WISE MEN OF SALAMANCA. Q^ 

plead the cause of a new and unknown world. 
At first only the friars of St, Stephen seemed to 
have any interest in the matter; the other mem- 
bers of the university yawned and lolled in their 
chairs, and showed every indication of being bored. 
Columbus advanced toward the junto, and bowed ; 
then one of the friars of St. Stephen said : 

" Proceed at once with your theories." 

" Most holy and learned fathers ! " Deep and 
rich were those tones, as if flowing from the in- 
most depths of a great soul. At sound of bis 
voice every eye sparkled and every form became 
erect, while all signs of listless indifference gave 
place to interest. " I come, most holy fathers, 
called of Heaven to plead the cause of an unknown 
world — a world lying beyond the seas — a land 
where splendor, beauty, and magnificence, such as 
has never come to us in our fondest dreams, await 
the explorer." 

-As he became warmed up in his theme, a glow 
which seemed born of inspiration overspread his 
face, and the lad, gazing on him in wonder, at last 
declared : 

"Surely he is called of God ! " 

All save the learned friars of St. Stephen appear 
to have entrenched themselves behind the dogged 
position, that after so many profound philosophers 
and cosmographers had been studying the form of 
the world, and so many able navigators had been 
5 



66 GOL UMBIA. 

sailing about it for several thousand years, it was 
the height of presumption in an ordinary man that 
there remained such a vast discovery for him to 
make. 

Columbus came and labored in the most inop- 
portune age of the world's history for his great 
achievement, and nothing but his indomitable 
will and determination, with the enthusiastic hal- 
lucination that he was called by Heaven to liber- 
ate the Holy Sepulchre, and his only means of 
acquiring the necessary funds was in this discov- 
ery, could have stimulated him to such prodigious 
efforts. The imperfect state of science at the 
time, and the manner in which knowledge, though 
rapidly extending, was still impeded in its prog- 
ress by monastic bigotry, were against him. All 
subjects were still contemplated through the ob- 
scure medium of those ages, when the lights of 
antiquity were trampled out and faith was left to 
fill the place of inquiry. Bewildered, in a maze 
of religious controversy, mankind had retraced 
their steps, and receded from the boundary line 
of ancient knowledge. 

Having resurrected the theories of Ptolemy, 
Marco Polo, and Aristotle, Columbus had pinned 
his faith on the judgment of the ancient philoso- 
phers and astronomers, rather than present navi- 
gators or bigoted churchmen and philosophers 
of his own age. 



THE WISE MEN OF SALAMANCA. 67 

As be gradually unfolded his plans, producing 
argument after argument to substantiate liis doc- 
trines, one of the most bigoted members of the 
junto suddenly interrupted him with : 

" What you say is sacrilege." 

" Why say you so? " asked Columbus. 

" It is in direct conflict with the Bible, the New 
Testament, the prophets, the epistles and gospels, 
as well as the expositions of various saints and 
commentators, St. Chrysostom, St. Augustine, 
St. Jerome, St. Gregory, St. Basil, St. Ambrose, 
and Lactantius Firmianus, the redoubted cham- 
pion of our faith." 

Being a religious enthusiast himself, Columbus 
was hardly ])repared for this turn of the discus- 
sion. At this time, doctrinal points were mixed 
up with philosophical discussions, and mathemat- 
ical demonstration was allowed no weight if it 
appeared to clash with a text of Scripture or a 
commentary of one of the fathers. 

After a moment's silence, Columbus replied: 

" Holy fathers, I reverence the doctrines and 
Scriptures as much as you, but the possibility of 
the antipodes in the southern hemisphere is an 
opinion so generally maintained by the ancients 
as to be pronounced by Pliny the great contest 
between the learned and the ignorant." 

Nevertheless, the antipodes proved a stum- 
bling-block in the way of the sages of Salamanca. 



68 COLUMBIA. 

" Your statements cannot be true," interposed 
the principal objector, who had surrounded him- 
self with the works of Lactantius and St. Augus- 
tine, who in those days were considered of almost 
Divine authority. " Listen, while I read what 
Lactantius says on the subject." 

And the friar read : 

" ' Is there any one so foolish as to believe there 
are antipodes with their feet opposite ours ; peo- 
ple who walk with their heels upward and their 
heads hanging down ? That there is a part of the 
world in which all things are topsy-turvy ; where 
trees grow with their branches downward, and 
where it rains, hails, and snows upward ? The 
idea of the roundness of the earth was the cause 
of the inventing this fable of the antipodes with 
their heels in the air ; for the philosophers, having 
once erred, go on in their absurdities, defending 
one with another.' " 

The friar paused, laid down Lactantius, and 
took up as his next authority St. Augustine. 
Eesuming the thread of his discourse, he added : 

" St, Augustine pronounces the doctrine of anti- 
podes, with which this would-be explorer seems so 
thoroughly imbued, to be incompatible with the 
historical foundations of our faith ; since to assert 
that there are inhabited lands on the opposite 
side of the globe would be to maintain that there 
are races not descended from Adam, it being im- 



THE WISE MEN OF SALAMANCA. 69 

possible for them to have passed the intervening 
ocean. This would be, therefore, to discredit the 
Bible, which expressly declares that all men are 
descended from one common parent. There are 
other points in the Holy Scriptures incompatible 
with the theory of this man. I believe he says 
the earth is spherical in form." 

The friar paused, that Columbus himself might 
answer, and without any hesitation he said : 

"Holy father, it is." 

" Then to his proposition I can bring the most 
direct proof that he is in conflict with God him- 
self. It is observed that, in the Psalms, the heav- 
ens are said to be extended like a hide; that 
according to our commentators, the curtain or 
covering of a tent, which among the pastoral 
people of ancient times was made of the hides of 
animals ; and even St. Paul, in his epistle to the 
Hebrews, compares the heavens to a tabernacle or 
tent extending over the earth, which of course 
must, by the very necessity of the argument, be 
flat." 

" Holy father, I fear that the figurative is being 
construed literally," interposed Columbus. 

"It is not for you to decide which is figurative 
and which literal," sharply answered the friar. 
" You, professing to be a Christian, have proved 
yourself heterodox," 

Columbus at once saw there was danger of his 



70 COLUMBIA. 

being wrongfully accused, and had begun to say 
something in his own defence, when another friar, 
more versed in science, rose and said: 

"Admitting that the earth is globular in form, 
and that there is a bare possibility of an opposite 
side that is inhabitable, we all know from scien- 
tific researches that it is impossible for one to 
arrive there, in consequence of the insupportable 
heat of the torrid zone. Again, even granting 
that this point could be passed, the earth's cir- 
cumference must be so great as to require at 
least three years to make the voyage, and as it 
would be impossible to take sufficient- provisions, 
in my opinion, all would perish of hunger and 
thirst." And having delivered this remarkable 
opinion, the august personage with, a conclusive 
" ahem," designed to exterminate the unknown 
upstart, seated himself. 

Another argued, on the authority of Epicurus, 
that, admitting that the earth was spherical, it 
could only be inhabited at the northern hemis- 
phere, and that section only was canopied by the 
heavens; that the opposite side was chaos, a gulf, 
or a mere waste of water. If a ship could reach 
the extremity of India, she ' could never get 
back again, for the rotundity of the globe would 
present a mountain up which it would be impos- 
sible to sail, even with the most favorable wind. 
Other objections, more cogent in their nature, and 



THE WISE MEN OF SALAMANCA. 7I 

more worthy of the distinguished university, were 
advanced, and Hernando began to tremble for 
their cause; but its advocate stood unabashed 
and unmoved by the argument of the friars. 

The interview might end by sending him to the 
rack, but he had a warm religious feeling, added 
to which was his superior knowledge of science, 
and an earnest conviction tliat he was right. 

When all the objections were made, he pro- 
ceeded to reply with cogent reasoning, logical con- 
clusions, and a depth of religion and knowledge 
which swept away the dark clouds of objection. 
He showed how the inspired writers were not 
speaking technically as cosmographers, but figu- 
ratively, in language addressed to all comprehen- 
sions. The ignorant bigot of the past was as 
ready to misquote and misinterpret the Scriptures 
as the bigoted and dishonest infidel of the present. 

The commentaries of the fathers Columbus 
treated with deference, as pious homilies, but not 
as philosophical propositions w^hich it was neces- 
sary to either admit or refute. But the objections 
drawn from ancient philosophers he met boldly 
and ably, upon equal terms, for he was well posted 
on all points of cosmography. He proved con- 
clusively that the most illustrious of those sages 
believed both hemispheres to be inhabitable, 
though they imagined that the torrid zone pre- 
cluded communication. 



72 VOLUMBIA. 

"I can. conclusively obviate that difBeulty," be 
continued. " 1 have myself voyaged to St. George 
la Miiia in Guinea, almost under the equinoctial 
line, and found the region not onl}' traversable, 
but abounding in population, fruits, and pastur- 
age." 

Then, as that simple, unknown navigator be- 
came warmed up, he elicited the closest attention 
from all. His convictions gave him confidence in 
the execution of what he conceived to be his great 
mission, and his ardent tom})erament became heat- 
ed by its own generous lires. His commanding 
person, his elevated demeanor, his air of author- 
ity, his kindling eye, and the persuasive intona- 
tions of his voice, gave majesty and force to his 
words, as, casting aside his maps and charts, and 
discarding for a time his jiractical and scientilic 
lore, his visionary sj)irit took iire at the doctrinal 
objections of his op})oncnts, and met them on tiieir 
own ground, pouring forth those magniticent texts 
of Scripture and those mysterious predictions of 
the prophets, which in liis enthusiastic moments 
he considered as types and annunciations of the 
sublime discoveries wliich he proposed. 

Influenced alike by reason and eloquence, Diego 
de Deza became convinced that Columbus was 
right. Diego de Deza was a learned friar of the 
Order of St. Dominic, at that time professor of 
theology in the Convent of St. Stephen, but who 



THE WISE MEN OF SALAMANCA. 73 

afterward became Archbisliop of Seville, the sec- 
ond ecclesiastical dignitary of Spain. This able 
and erudite divine could appreciate wisdom, even 
when uttered })y unlearned lips. lie took a gen- 
erous interest in the cause, and by the exercise of 
almost superhuman powers calmed the blind zeal 
of his more ignorant brethren, so as to obtain for 
the unknown mariner a dispassionate if not an 
unprejudiced liearing. By the united efforts of 
Columbus and Diego de Deza, it is said, they 
brought over the most learned men of the schools. 

'I'hc most serious objection raised to the theory 
of Columbus was sprung late in the discussion, 
and that was that his theory could not be recon- 
ciled with the cosmography of Ptolemy, to which 
all scholars yielded implicit faith. At this time 
the solar system of Copernicus, which was to re- 
verse the grand theory of Ptolemy, was unknown. 
It was requisite, before Columbus could make his 
solutions and reasonings understood, that he should 
remove from his auditors those erroneous princi- 
ples on which their objections were founded — a 
task more difficult than teaching a new doctrine. 

As time wore on, many began to lose interest 
in the conference, and the decision was delayed 
again and again. As days passed, and news of 
battles won and campaigns planned came from 
the front, the junto seemed to prefer discussing the 
practical question of expelling the Moors, to the 



74 COLUMBIA. 

impractical theory of discovering a new world. A 
voyage to one o{ the planets would to-day be re- 
garded with as much incredulity, and as wild and 
visionary, as was the plan of Columbus. Fernando 
de Talavera, to whom the matter was especially 
intrusted, had too little esteem for it, and was too 
much occupied with the stir and bustle of public 
concerns, to press it to a conclusion; and thus the 
inquiry experienced continual procrastination and 
neglect. 

Columbus waited day after day, week after 
week, and month after month for a decision, but 
none came. Early in the spring of 1487 the Cas- 
tilian court had departed from Salamanca, and 
repaired to Cordova, preparing for the memorable 
campaign against Malaga. Instead of waiting in 
idleness the decision of the junto, Columbus toot 
an active part in the campaign. He tried to per- 
suade Hernando to return to his home, but the 
youth said : 

" No, no ; I'll go with you. You are my father's 
only hope, and I must not lose sight of you." 

" We may not have a decision for months yet," 
argued Columbus. " When we do get it, the 
chances are the decision will be against us." 

"I must be with you when the decision does 
come," the lad answered. 

The summer of 1490 passed, and still Columbus 
and Hernando were kept in tantalizing suspense. 



THE WISE MEN OF SALAMANCA. 75 

They fought for Ferdinand and Isabella in many 
battles, and doubtless their perilous adventures, 
and the many stirring scenes of the war, made the 
days of suspense less irksome, 

Columbus and Hernando still lingered at Cor- 
dova, when it was ascertained that the sovereigns 
were preparing to depart on a campaign in the 
Yega of Granada, with a determination never to 
raise their camp from before the city until their 
victorious banners should float upon its towers. 

"I must have a decision of the junto at once," 
he said to Ferdinand, who, having an interest in 
the affair which was subordinate to his own con- 
quests, ordered Fernando de Talavera to hold a 
definite conference of the scientific men to whom 
the project had been referred, and make a report 
of their decision. The bishop tardily complied, 
and at length reported to their majesties, as the 
general opinion of the junto, that the proposed 
scheme was vain and impossible, and that it did 
not become such great princes to engage in an 
enterprise of the kind on such weak grounds as 
had been advanced. 

But Columbus had one enlightened mind and one 
enthusiastic soul in the person of Friar Diego de 
Deza, tutor of Prince Juan, who so tempered mat- 
ters that the plan was not rejected. Fernando de 
Talavera repaired to Cordova, where Columbus 
still waited a decision. With hope brightening 



70 COLUMBIA. 

Iiis f;u'o, Colninhus liastciicd to mod liim, and 
asked : 

"J lave vou a decision?" 

" Yes." " 

'•Do tliey reject it?" 

"No. I am autliorizcd to say tliat the great 
cares and expenses ol" the wars liave r(*nd(M-ed it 
iinpossihle for the sover(>i<2;ns to eii<2;at2,"e in any \\c\s 
cnter[)rise; bnt, when the war is (n'er, they will 
have both tinu^ and inehiiation to treat with you 
on tlu^ subject." 

Cohunbus reeled as it' he had been struck a 
bh)\v, and leaning against th(> wall said : 

" 1 was almost. I'oolish enough to hope." 

" Doi's not, this ju'omise give yon hope?" asked 
the royal messenger. 

"It is but a starving promise, at best, after so 
many days of weary attendane(\ anxious expecta- 
tions, and deferred hope." 

« 

But he gained strength and courage to repair 
\o the court at Seville, and get tiie answer from 
tlu^ lips of his scn'crcigns. It. was virtually the 
sann\ (ItH'lining to engage in I lie enterprise at 
jtresent, Imt pi'omising, wIumi tlu^ wai' was ovei', to 
give liim tlieii- aid in the atVair. 

"What will we ^\o now? Shall we wait?" 
Hernando asked when \\\o\ lelt tlu> eonrl. 

" It's no use," Oolund)us answei'i>d. "This in- 
delinite postponement is only a t'oni'tly mode 



THE WISE Mim OF SALAMANCA. 77 

of (^vadiii^' oin- iiiiport.iinity. Wo will Icjivc 
Spain." 

"Surely iliey will ro<;o»iHi(l(M-." 

" 1 have iKj confidcMKH! in vn^wc inoiriiHCS wliicli 
lia,v(! so often l('(| 1,0 (liKa])|)oitiirticiit. \ Iiuvo 
already been beguiled out, of too nuuiy prctiious 
years of waning exintenee, and to-morrow I will 
tiiiMi my back on Seville and d(;[)art for Krancc." 



CIIAPTKh' V. 

y.WA. OK 'I'lIK (IIIKSCENT. 

AnoUT li:ill";i lc;iij;uo IVoiii i\\c litlK' so;i|H)rt town 
ol" P;iK)s do Mogiior, in Andalusia, tluM-c still stands 
to this i.]i\y an ancient convent of b'raiicisean 
friars, dedicated to Santa Maria de Ixahida. One 
day, aeeordino' to the nodtifarions wi'itinus of the 
Plieto, wliirh are still [)rescrvod ai Se\ille, a 
stranj^'cr o\\ foot, in innuhle i>ause hut. of distiu- 
ii'uished air, aeconi})anied hy a hov, stopped at 
the gate oi the eonviMit, and askt'd the poiMcM- foi- 
a little bread and water foi- his ehihl. WhiK-ri'- 
ceiving this humble refreshment, the jti'ior of the 
eonvent, duan IVmhv- de Mai'ehena, hap|)iMiing to 
pass by, was struck l>y the ap[)eai'a.nce of the 
stranger, and observing, from his air and accent, 
that he was a foreigner, entered into ci^nversation 
with Iiim, and learned tlu> particulars of his story. 
That strangt'r was (."IoIuiuImis. 

'riu> prior was a man i^f I'xtcnsive iid'ormation, 
who, from his close })roximity to I'alos, had given 
considerable attention to geography and nautical 
science. 'VUc inhabitants of Palos were among 
the most c>nterprising navigators of Spain, having 
made frctpuMit voyages and iliscoveries on the 



itWLi, OF run: ciwiscknt. 70 

Arri<':i-ii coii-sl. Till' [trior vv;is ;.'i'<':iJ,ly iiili rcslcd 
l)y l,li(^ <'()iiv<'rs;ili<>ii of ( loliiinWiis, :iiiil slriick vvitJi 
the ^riuidciir of liis views. Il^ vv;is ;i, rcmnrkublf! 
occurrence, in llic nionolonoiis lile of IJk; clois1,ei', 
1,0 li;ive ii, in;in of sneli ii sin^njlnr eliiiructcr, intent 
on so (sxtriiordiiiury :iti cinUirprisc!, applying- for 
])rc;i(l iind \vii,1.er ;il, llie oiij(> of Ins (tonvcrit. 

WIkmi t,li<; |)rioi' h^iirned t,li:i,t, IJk! voyager was on 
ilie poitit, of abandoning Spain lo «(!(;!-: patronage; 
in tlic court, of h'r;i,nc(!, and that so itMf)ortant an 
onici"[)ris(! was about to Ix; lost forcve'i" to tlie 
country, li'fs i)atriotisrn took alarm, lieing dilli- 
(lent of liin own judgment, Ik; d(!tuine(l (Jolund)us 
as liis guest, and sent for- a, scientilic fri<;nd — 
Garcia F(!rnandcz — a physician, r(;siderit in l*aioH. 
I^'ernniidez wjiscfpiidly iiri[)rcHHcd with th(! appear- 
ance and eonv(;rsation of th(! Htr;uigcr. 

" It can yet l>e arranged, senoi'," asserted tli(! 
good doe-tor, "and you must rem;i,in a while! 
longer. 

"Alas! my fr-iends, I hav<! almost al)a,Mdohed 
liop(;. The king and (pi(!(!n an; too mu<'li ab- 
sorbed in the conqnxist of (jraiKuhi to listtni to my 
thcorioM, Thoy cvi(l(!ntly hav(! no fiiith in me." 

" You must st,a,y a,nd meet some friends Irom 
]'alos. You hav(! h(!;i.rd of tin; l'in/-onsV" 

" I liavo, thougli I nev(!r met th(;m." 

" You shaJl sec them, and the-y shall hear your 
story.'' 



80 



VOLVMBIA. 



Tlic lu'xt (lay brought, about tlio iin>iiu>iilous 
inoetin*;" ol tlioso famous ua\ignli>rs, who \\imh> 
dcstinod to briui;- ow each othiM- ctci'iial i\mio\vu 
ami ruin. Martin AK>n/.o Piuzou was in the poi't 
of PaK>s at tho tiiuo. 

The fame of tlie Pinzons was fur jjjreater at this 
time than that of Oi>lumb\is, and Hernando, who 

had often secMi thiMii 

when in port at Paios, 

liad never had anv 

higher ambition in iiis 

boyhood than to sail 

in one of their ships. 

The [)rior br o u g h t 

with him fi-om Palos 

a tall, jH^verful man. 

with broad, high Wow 

j.\ and dark beard. He 

wore a s w o r d and 

breastplate, ami as the 

lad studied the faee oi the great sailor, he pro- 

{)ounih\l to himself the question : 

" Can he hel]) us ? " 

Columbus seemed to feel that at last they were 
Hearing the end. Martin Alonzo Pinzon was an 
experienced navigator, a man of good family and 
great wealth, and was not so liable to be preju- 
diced by false logic and theories distorted from 
trulit, as the learned uumi of the realm. 




Mautin Alonzo Pinzon. 



FALL 01'' TIII'J (niKHCjKNT. 81 

'IMiis first meeting betwecu Murtin J-*inz()ii juhI 
Christopher (Joliiinliiis was eordial, iind from ihe 
lii-si they seeincd to In; friends. In the great sea- 
eu[)tuiu the future discoverer found an interested 
and intelligent listener. 

"1 doubt not your theory, Senor C(dnrnbijs," 
the sailor answered, wlien Colurrd>ushad explained 
liis phuis. " I lia,ve r(\seued from the waves many 
reliefs drifting in from that unknown sea. In 
ad(iition to the bcjdies of a strange raee whieh 
floated to our shores, I have picked up wood of a 
S[)eeies urdcnown to us, as well as strange and 
won(Jerful carvings." 

Hernan(h), who had been listening with breath- 
less interest and ut>ter silence uj) to this momcnl, 
now allowed his anxiety to overcome his years, 
and boldly asked : 

" Would you undertake such a voyage, senor ? " 

Almost immediately he remembered he was a 
boy — that it was not his j)lace to speak — and 
he hung his head in confusion. Pinzon was a 
kind-hearted as well as irjtelligent and bi'ave 
mariner, and with an encouraging smile he an- 
swered : 

"Yes; I am so favorably impressed with th(! 
plan that lam willing to engage in il- with my 
purse and person. I>y all means, renew your aj)- 
plication at court, senor." 

"Alas! T have no money," was the answer. 
6 



a2 



COLUMBIA. 



"I will bear the expenses niyself. Give up, I 
pray you, all idea of a journey to France." 

" Wait, and by all means make one more effort," 
put in Friar Juan Perez, who, confirmed in his 
faith bj tlie concurrence of tliose learned and 
practical councillors, now became one of tlu; most 
enthusiastic advocates of the new enterprise. " I 
was once confessor to the queen, and one of our 

calling always has access to 
her. If you will remain, T 
will write to her immedi- 
ately on the subject." 

Columbus was easily per- 
suaded, for he felt as if in 
leaving Spain he was aban- 
doning home ; and he was 
also reluctant to renew in 
another court the vexations 
and disappointments expe- 
rienced in Spain and J^ortugal. 
" I will stay," he at last decided. 
" And I will send Sebastian llodriguez as am- 
bassador to the queen. She is in the new mili- 
tary city of Santa Fe, which has been built in 
the Vega, before Granada." , 

In two days the ambassador was sent with the 
friar's letter, and in dii(> time came back with an 
answer from tlie queen to Juan l^erez, requesting 
that he would repair immediately to the court, 




ViNCKNT YANEZ PlNZON. 



FALL OF THE CRESGFNT. 83 

leaving Christoplicr Cohiin])ns in confident li()])e 
until he should further heui" IVoiii her. The royal 
letter spread joy throughout the convent. No 
sooner did the enthusiastic fi'iar receive it, than 
he saddled his mule, and, though it was nearly 
midnight, set out through the country of the con- 
quered Moors, by roads which were by no means 
safe, to Granada. 

"Another long period of unrest and anxiety 
is before me," remarked Columbus, when he was 
again alone with his young iwoti'ge. 

"Let us pray Heaven it may not be in vain," 
said the youth. 

" I am not despondent, for I feel that each effort 
strengthens my cause," answered Columbus. 
"There is much ground for hope. The sacred 
office of Juan Perez will gain hiui a ready entrance 
to the court, and when once I can get the ear of 
the queen I am certain of success." 

As history has })roven, Columbus was correct 
in all his calculations. Juan Perez gained admis- 
sion to the queen and laid before her the plans of 
Columbus. Though she had in a general way 
heard something of Columbus as a wild, visionary 
enthusiast or adventurer, his claims had never 
been presented to her in their true light Ixifore. 
Juan Perez found an able coadjutor in the Mar- 
chioness of Moya, who entered into the affair with 
all a woman's disinterested enthusiasm, having 



84 COLUMBIA. 

met Columbus nud fonuod liis acquaintance on a 
fonncr occasion, and already knowing something 
of his plans, and how he had spent his life and 
fortune in trying to give to Spain a greater 
honor than a nation had ever attained. Isabella 
was moved as only a wise Christian woman 
could be, by such unvselfisli devotion. 

"This man Colund)us must be a great nund, 
after all," she ci'ied, at the conclusion of the joint 
appeal of the marchioness and friar. " Send him to 
me; and, as he may have suffered by long priva- 
tions, I will order that twenty thousand maravedis 
in florins be forwarded to him to bear his travelling 
expenses." 

Again there was joy at the convent and the 
town of Palos, when Garcia Fernandez delivered 
the order, and the money with it, to Columbus. 

The intervening time Hernando had spent at 
home with his granddamc and Christina, return- 
ing only the day before Garcia Fernandez aiTived 
with the message and money. 

"Can I accompany you?" he asked. 

For a moment Columbus hesitated, and then 
said : 

" Yes ; our destinies are linked together, and you 
may go." 

They at once exchanged their threadbare garbs 
for those more suited to the sphere of a court, and 
set out once more to the camp before Granada. 



FALL OF TllM CRESCENT. 85 

But (lisappoiiiiiiiciiis wore not yet :it jui end. 
In fact, from the bcginnin<j:; to the end of his life, 
Columbus met witli a contitiuoiis ciiain of disap- 
poiiitments. It was a most inopportune ])eriod for 
the transaction of any business with tlic court, 
lie experienced a favorable reception, and was 
given in hosi)itablc charge to his steady friend, 
AloM/o de Quintilhi, the accountant general. 

"The moment is too eventful for your business 
to receive immediate attention," said (^uiiitilla. 
" Yon will have to wait." 

"I have learned, long since to wait," the great 
man answered, in his meek, submissive way. 

'' It will not be long," Quintilla assured. " Bo- 
abdil was captured while on a ])lundering expedi- 
tion a few days since, and now the Moorish king is 
about to sally forth from the Alhambra, and sur- 
render the keys of the seat of Moorish power. 
After almost eight hundred years, the Moors will be 
ex[)clled from Spain. Ah, it will be a grand day." 

On^at crowds of people were already assembled 
to witness the goi'geous scene. Knights with 
glittering lances, gleaming helmets, swords, and 
bucklers were everywhere. The hills and valleys 
were alive and swarming with horsemen and foot- 
soldiers. Ladies of raidc, and the wives of the 
soldiers, mingled with the military, '^riie blast of 
trumpets and soft notes of the distant bugle-horn 
(died the air with melodious sounds. 



86 GOL UMBIA. 

"Oh, what a grand sight!" cried Hernando. 
" See how the armor glitters ; look at those arque- 
busiers, and see tlie cannon. Look how the ban- 
ners rise and fall." 

" Beware, Hernando, or you will be trampled to 
death," continued Columbus. "These troopers 
are careless." 

" So they be. — In St. Anthony's name, man, will 
you ride your horse right over a person ? " de- 
manded the indignant lad, as a horseman almost 
ran his steed over him. 

"Give way to the heralders of the sovereigns," 
shouted the trooper. " Stand back. — Get away. 
You cumbereth the ground." 

" Eein in your Eozin," cried Columbus, losing 
his temper. " If you make way for the heralds 
of our good king and queen, you ought to know 
civility." 

The horsemen passed on, paymg no heed to 
Columbus. A long retinue of nobles, princes, 
knights, and ladies, all on horseback, leading the 
procession of Ferdinand and Isabella, uow came 
riding down through the throngs of people. 

Heading the procession, mounted on a prancing 
horse, a short arquebus in his hand, was a tall, 
finely formed man, with flashing eye and hauglity 
demeanor. He was one of the newly-made knights, 
for his armor was snow-white, and he was attached 
to the staff of the king. 



FALL OF THE CRESCENT. 



87 



" Look," whispered the lad, seizing Columbus 
bj the arm. " He is my uncle Garcia, who, aided 
by the Moor, procured my father's banishment. 
I have told you of him." 

" Yes." 




'•Look," whispered the Lad, seizing Columbus by the Akm. 
"He is my Uncle Garcia." 



Then Columbus watched the knight with more 
than ordinary interest. Once Sir Garcia turned 
his eye toward the boy whom he had so greatly 
wronged, and, recognizing Hernando amid the 
throng, he started slightly, averted his face, and 
rode on. 

" A villain," exclaimed Columbus, who was 
impulsive in his nature. 



88 COLUMBIA. 

Everybody was taken ii]) with tbc procession, 
and no heed was given his remark, even if it was 
heard. The kingly courtiers, lords, and ladies, in 
all the pomp and splendor of the age, passed by ; 
then came Ferdinand and Isabella, more grand 
than any part of this sublime procession. 

We can do no better than give the following 
faithful picture of Columbus, drawn at the time 
and handed down by Clemencin. During the 
brilliant trium])hant scene, he describes him as 
follows : " A man obscure and but little known 
at this time followed the court. Confounded in the 
crowd of importunate applicants, feeding his im- 
agination in the corners of antechambers with the 
pompous project of discovering a world, melan- 
choly and dejected in the midst of general rejoic- 
ing, he beheld with indifference, almost amounting 
to contempt, the conclusion of a conquest which 
swelled the bosoms of all with jubilee, and seemed 
to have reached the utmost bounds of desire. 
That man was Christopher Columbus." 

The sunlight flashed on a bewildering scene of 
burnished arms, glittering helmets, waving plumes, 
and streaming banners, while Ferdinand and Isa- 
bella moved forward in proud and solemn proces- 
sion to the consummation of their grandest hopes. 
It was the most brilliant triumph in Spanish 
history. After eight hundred years the crescent 
had fallen, the cross was exalted in its place, and 



FALL OF THE CRESVEMT. 89 

the standard of Spain floated from the highest 
tower of the Alhambra. The whole court and 
army were abandoned to jubilee, and such a scene 
as was witnessed by Hernando and Columbus has 
never been repeated. The air resounded with 
shouts of joy, songs of triumph, and hymns of 
thanksgiving. The king and queen moved in the 
midst, in exalted magnificence, while every eye 
regarded them as more than mortal, as if sent by 
Heaven for the salvation and upbuilding of Spain. 
The boy stood on tiptoe, craned his neck, mounted 
blocks of wood and stone, in order to catch a 
glimpse of his sovereigns. Many a foot grew 
weary, and many a neck ached from perpetual 
straining to get sight of the beloved monarchs. 

The court was thronged by the most illustrious 
of that war-like country and stirring era, and the 
flower of the nobility was in attendance. The 
dignity of its prelacy, the bards and minstrels, and 
all the retinue of a romantic and picturesque age, 
made it a scene that has never been excelled in 
history. The whole day was one of kaleidoscopic 
splendor, the glittering of arms, sounds of music 
and rejoicing. 

What was joy to the Spaniards was grief to the 
Moors. After almost eight hundred years they 
must give up the land they had come to regard 
their own, and emigrate to another. 

At two o'clock in the afternoon, the Moorish 



DO COLUMBIA. 

army, trailing the crescent, came forth to sur- 
render. 

It was a solemn and imposing ceremony. The 
stipulations of the surrender had already been 
agreed upon, and nothing but the form remained 
to be gone tliroui>:h with. 

While the Spaniards lilled the air with shouts 
and cries of joy, the Moors made the welkin ring 
with groans and sobs of bitterness. It was then 
that the Moorish bard from the depths of his soul 
broke forth with : 

"Beautiful Granada, how is thy glory faded! 
The flower of thy chivalry lies low in the land 
of the stranger. No longer does the Vivarrambla 
echo to the tramp ol steed and sound of trumpet; 
no longer is it crowded with thy youthful nobles, 
gloriously arrayed for the tilt and tourney. Beau- 
tiful Granada I The soft note of the lute no longer 
floats through the moonlit streets. The serenade 
is no more heard beneath thy balconies. The 
lively Castanet is silent upon thy hills. The 
graceful dance of the zambra is no more to be seen 
beneath thy bowers. Beautiful Granada ! Why 
is the Alhambra so lorn and desolate? The or- 
ange and myrtle still breathe their perfumes into 
its silken chambers ; the nightingale still sings 
within its groves; its marble halls are still re- 
freshed with llu> flash of fountains and gush of 
limpid rills. Alas, alas! the countenance of the 



FAf.n OF THE CRESCENT. Ui 

kinjj; no longer sliincs within tboso walls. The 
light of the Alharabra is forever set." 

So deep was their grief and so great their lam- 
entations that Hernando was for the time l)einj2: 
moved to compassion. But suddenly his eyes 
grew bright, glistening with hate, and starting 
from th(^. sid(^ of Columbus, he ran across the in- 
tervcniing space between the people and ranks of 
the Moors, and approaching a tall, dark-skinned 
fellow who had lost the upper half of his left car, 
he cried : 

"Abdallah Alimed, arc you here? " 

"Christian dog, have you come to rejoice over 
our ruin?" the Moor answered. 

"No." 

" Then away ! " 

"No, no. I would ask you questions." 

" How know you that the Mussulman will give 
truthful answers? " 

"You must swear by your prophet to give me 
a truthful answer. "Where is my father?" 

"Think you that I know?" 

"From the dai'k liints which you breathed on 
one other occasion, you must know to what strange 
far-off land he sailed." 

"I know nothing to tell." 

" Dog of a Mohammedan, you deserve to have 
your other ear cut from your head." 

The infuriated Moor raised his hand, and would 



92 COLUMBIA. 

have struck the lad had not a fellow Moor seized 
his arm. 

"Are you mad, Abdallah ? Know you not that 
we dare not touch the child of a Christian ? " 

" I'll bide my time ; but, Hernando Estevan, I 
hate you for taking away the fair child Christina. 
I will be even with you yet, and I'll take her with 
me when vve again invade Andalusia." 

The indignation of Hernando now almost burst 
all bounds. He could hardly reconcile himself to 
the idea of Christina's name being polluted by the 
breath of such a villain, and with clinched fist 
sprang forward to strike his enemy, when sud- 
denly a gayly caparisoned horseman spurred his 
steed between them. 

Turning his flashing eyes on Hernando, he 
cried : 

"Away, youngster — brat — away ! '" 

" Uncle Garcia, there stands the man whose 
lying tongue ruined my father," cried the excited 
and indignant youth. 

" I know you not — away ! " 

" You are my uncle Grarcia Estevan." 

"Lying brat, away." 

" In the name of my wronged father — '' the lad 
began ; but Garcia Estevan flew into a rage, and 
with the flat side of his sword struck the youth a 
blow which staggered him. 

"Shame, shame ! " cried a voice, and next mo- 



FALL OF THE CRESCENT. 93 

ment Columbus seized the stunned boy in his 
arm, and snatched his own sword from its sheath. 
"Have jou not wronged him enough already? 
Do you now wish to end your foul work in the 
niurder of your brother's child?" 

"Who are you, you old white-haired sitmer," 
roared Garcia, and raising his sword lie aimed a 
downward stroke at Columbus, '^i^hc explorer 
was a skilled swordsman, and with the greatest 
ease warded ofT the stroke. Before they could 
cross blades again, a steel-clad horseman, mounted 
on a powerful black steed, galloped between them 
and cried : 

"Hold, Sir Garcia! As you value your life, 
harm not Sefior Columl)us." 

The new arrival was Alon/.o (^lintilla, the 
accountant-general, and a man with wiiom Sir 
Garcia dared not dis])ute. 

" Seiior Columbus, if you would make your 
enterprise a success, you must avoid private quar- 
rels." 

" I have no quarrel to make with that man ; I 
but defended the lad and myself." 

" Say no more ; I know all." 



CHAPTER VI. 

AftAIN DENIED. 

Though burning with hate and dread, Gareia 
Estevan was powerless to harm either the child or 
his white-haired champion. Alonzo de Quintilla, 
the accountant-general, was too powerful a per- 
sonage for even the king's favorite to oppose. 

"Away, Estevan," cried Alonzo de Quintilla. 

" He is but a meddlesome fool," answered the 
angry knight. 

"Enough ! I know yon, and I know this man 
and hoy. Begone!" 

As Sir Garcia rode away he gave Columbus a 
look which boded him no good. 

" What does he mean ? " the knight asked him- 
self. "Why has he espoused the old fellow's 
cause, and why has the man with white hair es- 
poused the cause of the boy? " 

During all the remainder of the im])osing cere- 
mony Garcia was ill at ease, and the Moor Abdal- 
lah Ahmed kept out of sight. The face of the 
boy haunted the wicked uncle, and when he 
reached his chamber that night he determined to 
know more of the lad and his strange companion, 
and what was their object in Granada. He sum- 



AGAIN DENIED. 



95 



moned his esquire, and asked bim if he knew the 
boy Hernando or his white-haired companion, 

" I do not, Sir Garcia," the esquire answered, 

" Can you learn anything of them, Sancho ? " 

" I know a man who will furnish you with the 
information you desire." 

•' Find him and send him to me," 

Sancho went away, and an hour later reappeared 
with a low-browed, surly, 
villanous-looking fellow, 
who by his attire and man- 
ner was evidently a sailor. 

" What is your name ? " 
asked the knight. 

"I am Miguel, an hon- 
est sailor from Palos." 

" Can 1 engage your 
services ? " 

" In what, sir knight? " 

" There is an old, white-haired man here with a 
boy. I saw them to-day following the parade." 

"Are they in your way, sir knight?" asked 
Miguel, with a deep hidden meaning, yet one well 
understood by the knight. 

" I don't mean that yet, Miguel. I merely want 
to know who he is, and what is his business here." 

"The lad?" 

" T know him. He is the son of my brother, 
who fled Spain a few years ago to escape the 




MiouEL THE Mutineer. 



96 COLUMniA. 

wrath of an injured king. I want to know tho 
kid's white-liaireii companion, and what nu>ti\e 
brings him here.'' 

"I will learn, sir knight. Unless T mistake, 
they are the same who were at Palos a low wooks 
since. I will learn all, anil let yon know." 

Sir Garcia slept little that night, and when he 
did, he dreamed of the pale-faeeil lad, whose eyes 
were so strikingly like the wronged brothers. 

'' What cursed fate comes now to snatcli from 
me the laurels I have won by years of toil, danger, 
and sehemiuijr '? " he aski>d himself, as he tossed 
npon his bed. " Are the golden spurs to be 
stripped from my heels by that brat and that 
infernal old meddler? " 

AV'hen he fouml tlu^ n\(M-niug sunlight streaming 
in at his chandKn-, he ealliHl his .valet and asUed 
for the sailor Miguel. 

"He is in waiting, Sir dareia.'' 

The kniixht rose, dressed and breakfasted hnr- 
riedly, and sent for the spy. Miguel entered wnth 
downcast eyes, as if conscious of his own guilt. 

"Have you learned anything?" asked Sir Gar- 
cia. 

"I have, senor." 

"What?" 

"The lad's champion is a Genoese navigator, 
named Christopher Columbus." 

'■ What is he doinff here? "' 



AGAIN bhlNIKI). 97 

" He came to have an audience with the queen 
and her couneillorH." 

" For 'whM parpoHf. 7 " 

Garcia was Ireinblirifr with approiienBion. ^I'lie 
sailor, wiio waK .slow of Kpee(;ii, hesitated a moment 
and answered : 

"Christoplier ColumijUH iias taken it into his 
head to go to tiie antipodes." 

"Where is that?" 

"I don't know, sir knight, but it is somewhere 
that he expects to discover a new world." 

" Is he an explorer?" 

" He iB." 

" r have }ieard of him. Now, tell me for what 
puriKjse he hus uskc-d an audience with the 
queen." 

" Tf> fit oiit a fleet to go to tiie arit,ipf>d<j.s and 
discover a new world." 

Placing some gold in his hand. Sir Garcia said : 

"That will do for the present, Miguel. Yoii 
may go, but be near at hand when I want you." 

The sailor rose, bowed, and, elated at his good 
fortune, hurried away. Left alone, the cunning 
Garcia bejran to consider what was to Ij'; done. 

'• Why does this man want to explore the un- 
known sea on wljich my brother di.sap)peared years 
ago?" he asked himself; "and why is he ho 
attached to my brother's son? I must look a little 
further into thi.s." 
7 



98 COLUMBIA. 

Calling his esquire into his presence, Sir Garcia 
said : 

" The man Columbus is here to hold an audience 
with the queen and her councillors soon, and Fer- 
nando de Talavera is one of them. I must see 
him." 

" You shall, my lord." And with a bow the 
esquire turned about, and quitted the room. In 
due time, Fernando de Talavera arrived, and Gar- 
cia at once plunged into the subject. 

" Have jou met the man Columbus ? " 

" I have, sir knight." 

" Are you one to deliberate with him on this 
wild scheme of exploring the antipodes ? " 

"I shall probably be one of the body," 

" Don't you think it folly for the government 
to send out such an expedition ? " 

"I do." 

" Will you oppose it ? " 

" I have always opposed it, but my voice does 
not outweigh the other advisers of the queen. 
She has determined to give him an audience, and 
I greatly fear will consent." 

The cunning Garcia had seen Columbus but 
once ; he had frequently heard of him, however, 
and knew that his pride would make great de- 
mands on his sovereigns. His plan for defeating 
his purpose was to deal so niggardly with the 
great man that he would refuse to accept the 



AGAIN DENIED. 99 

terms offered him. He sTiggested the plan to 
Fernando de Talavera, who, being personally hos- 
tile to the scheme of Columbus, at once fell in 
with Sir Garcia's idea. 

Thus we again find the way to easy ^victory 
blocked. He who was the world's greatest bene- 
factor was misunderstood and beset by enemies 
on every hand. 

The moment had arrived, however, when the 
monarchs stood pledged to attend to the proposi- 
tion. The war with the Moors was at an end, 
Spain was delivered from the intruders, and its 
sovereigns might securely turn their views to for- 
eign enterprises. Isabella kept her word with 
Columbus, and as soon as matters could be ar- 
ranged prepared to receive him at her own court. 

" Can I accompany you ? " Hernando asked, on 
the morning that Columbus, arrayed in dark 
velvet costume of the court, prepared to deliver 
that famous final appeal, which will go thundering 
down the ages until time shall be no more. 

With a kindly smile, the great navigator an- 
swered : 

" We have stood side by side for so long that T 
cannot refuse your request now. " 

Columbus appeared in the royal presence of the 
good queen, quite as self-possessed as usual, nei- 
ther dazzled nor daunted by the splendor of the 
court nor the awful majesty of the throne. 



100 COL UMBIA. 

Seated on tlie throne, surrounded by lords, 
nobles, courtiers, ladies of rank, and high Church 
dignitaries, was one of the purest and most beau- 
tiful characters in history — Queen Isabella. Her- 
nando gazed on her in wonder and admiration. 
Her splendid court costume and glittering crown 
became dull and commonplace when compared 
to the majesty and beauty of her face. She was 
well formed, of medium size, with great dignity 
and gracefulness of deportment, and a mingled 
gravity and sweetness of demeanor. Her com- 
plexion was fair; her hair auburn, inclining to 
red ; her eyes were of a clear blue, with a benign 
expression — a singular modesty of countenance, 
gracing, as it did, a wonderful firmness of purpose, 
and earnestness of spirit. 

Approaching quite to the throne, Columbus 
knelt before the queen, who gave him her hand 
to kiss. Then he rose and waited her royal 
pleasure. As on the occasion of his visit to Sala- 
manca, the great navigator had an abundance of 
maps and charts, which Hernando carried for 
him. 

Surrounding the queen Columbus saw several 
friendly faces, among them Friar Juan Perez and 
that noble woman, the Marchioness of Moya. 

" Senor Columbus, proceed," said the queen, 
whose voice had all the music of silver chimes 
in it. 




DID I NOT KNOW I WAS CALLED BY HEAVEN TO PLEAD THE CAUSE OF 
AN UNKNOWN WOULD, [ WOl'LD NOT DAItE STAND IN YOUU I'KKSENCE." 



AGAIN DKNIEI). 101 

Unfolding a chart wliicli Ik; 1h;I'I in HiH hand, 
Coliirnl)HH b(!M-iui : 

" GreatcHt and best qnoon, rno.st beloved of ;ill 
HovoreignH, ruler of a f)owerfuI nation, [lurdon the 
unseemly )'('(]ii(;st of this audience. I>id I not 
know thiit I stood in tin; luuid of Heaven, chosen 
frcnn among mcui for tiie acc(jniplishment of its 
liigh f)ur[)Ose, I would not dare stand iKjfore you 
and plead this cause for an unknown world. I read 
of the discoveries I conternphate making, in Holy 
Writ, whi(;h are darkly shadowed forth in the 
mystifj revelations of the prophets, 1'hc ends 
of the eui-th are to })c Itronght together, and ail 
nations, tongues, iuid hmgufjges united under ihf; 
l)!inn(;r- of the Kedeemer. ^JMie triumjtiiant con- 
summation of my enterprise, great queen, is bring- 
ing the remote anrl unknown regions of the eartli 
into communion with Christian Kurrrf^e; carrying 
the light (A true faith into benighted and pagan 
hinds, and trathering tlieir countless nations under 
the holy dominion of the Church." 

A l)(;t,t(;r preface lo his argument could not 
iiave been chosen. The queen and ecclesiastics 
were wrajtt in wonder. The closest attention was 
given iiim from this time on, ;i,nd liud not tlie 
queen been already favorably impressc'i with the 
[)lan, she would have been converted. 

Only Fernando de ^Palavera seemed unmoved 
by the powerful argum(;nt; and as Columbus 



102 COLUMBIA. 

warmed up, producing argument after argument, 
holding throne and attendants spellbound, Tala- 
vera became alarmed. 

Columbus placed his argument under three 
heads, and logically argued each in its turn. First 
was the nature of things ; second, the authorit}^ of 
learned writers; third, the reports of navigators. 

As his first, he asserted as a fundamental argu- 
ment that the earth was a terraqueous sphere, 
which might be travelled around from east to 
west, and that when on opposite points men stood 
foot to foot. According to Ptolemy, he divided 
the circumference from east to west at the equator 
into twenty-four hours of fifteen degrees each, 
making in all three hundred and sixty degrees. 
Comparing the globe of Ptolemy with the earlier 
map of Marinus of Tyre, he supposed that fifteen 
hours had been known to the ancients, extending 
from the Canary Islands to the city of Thin^e in 
Asia, a place set down as at the eastern limits of 
the known world. 

" The Portuguese," continued Columbus in his 
address to the monarchs of Spain, " have advanced 
the western frontier one hour more by the dis- 
covery of the Azores and Cape de Verde Islands. 
There then remain eight hours, or one-third the 
circumference of the earth, unknown and unex- 
plored. This space may in a great measure be 
filled up by the eastern regions of Asia, which 



AGAIN DENTED. 103 

may extend so far as t(^ nearly surround the globe, 
and even to approach the western shores of Europe 
and Africa. The tract of ocean between these 
countries is no doubt less than has been sup- 
posed." 

Under the second head of his argument. Colum- 
bus submitted to the queen authors whose writ- 
ings had weight in convincing him that the 
intervening ocean could be but of moderate 
expanse and easily traversed. Among these he 
cited tlie opinion of Aristotle, Seneca, and Pliny, 
that one might pass from Cadiz to the Indies in a 
few days. The wonderful narratives of Marco 
Polo and John Mandeville, with whi<;li he was 
thoroughly acquainted, he quoted page after page. 
He read the letter of Fernando Martinez, a learned 
canon of Lisbon, who maintained that India could 
be reached by a western course, asserting that the 
distance could not be greater than four thousand 
miles in a direct line from Lisbon to the province 
of Mangi, near Cathay, 

As a third argument, he enumerated the various 
i>ndications of land in the west, which had floated 
to the known world — the dead bodies of a strange 
race of men, branches of trees bearing an unknown 
fruit, and pieces of wood strangely carved and evi- 
dently of a workmanship unknown to the inhabi- 
tants of Europe. Reeds of an immense size, grown 
no doubt on an. unknown land, had floated from 



104 COLUMBIA. 

the west to the island of Porto Santo, where liad 
also been cast up on the shore some pieces of 
wood, strangely carved by other than iron instru- 
ments. His argument partoolc of logic, philos- 
ophy, {ind eloquence, and the queen was herself a 
delighted auditor. 

Having concluded, ho stood with his head 
meekly bowed awaiting her answer. 

" I have listened carefully to all you have said, 
and I am strongly impressed with the force and 
logic of your conclusions. I shall gladly negotiate 
with you, and on to-morrow those in whom I hav^e 
confidence will be appointed to meet you and 
arrange all plans. 

" Victory at last, after eighteen years' weary 
waiting," sighed Columbus, as he left the scene of 
his recent triumphs. 

" We can go now, can't we," asked the lad, as 
they went to their apartments. 

" We have a hope." 

"A hope! Isn't it sure?" 

" No ; we may not be able to make terms. If 
the queen should put certain parties on the list to 
negotiate with me, it might even yet fail. I will 
make this voyage on my own terms, or never 
make it." 

When Columbus met the parties appointed by 
the queen to negotiate with him, his worst fears 
were realized. Almost the first person he saw was 



AGAIN DENIED. 105 

Fernando *de Talavera, and just behind him the 
cold, sinister Sir Garcia Estevan, both of whom 
were pledged to balk the enterprise. Talavera 
had risen bj the recent conquests to be Arch- 
bishop of Granada. How Sir Garcia had ever 
managed to become one of the queen's agents, 
Columbus was never able to learn. 

At the meeting of the queen's solicitors with 
Columbus, Talavera said : 

"Our royal princess and queen of Castile, Isa- 
bella, has sent us to consult with you. She is fav- 
orably impressed with your proposed voyage, and 
wishes to know on what terms you will undertake 
it." 

This was what Columbus desired. So fully im- 
bued was he with the grandeur of his enterprise 
that he would listen to nothing but princely con- 
ditions. He answered : 

"My principal stipulations are that I shall be 
invested with the titles and privileges of admiral 
and viceroy over the countries I may discover, 
with one-tenth of all the gains, either by trade or 
conquest." 

"You demand too much," cried Talavera, whose 
pride was shocked to see one whom he had con- 
sidered a needy adventurer aspiring to a rank and 
dignity superior to his own. 

" It is certainly a shrewd arrangement, Senor 
Columbus," put in the sneering Sir Garcia. " You 



106 COLUMBIA. 

propose to secure, at all events, the honor of a 
command, and have nothing to lose in case of 
a failure." 

To this charge Columbus promptly replied : 

"I will furnish one-eighth of the cost, on con- 
dition of enjoying one-eighth of the profits." 

"Where will you get the means?" asked Sir 
Garcia, with another sneer on his fine, handsome 
face. 

"Friends in Palos," meaning the Pinzons, "will 
furnish the money for the enterprise." 

" You ask too much," said Fernando de Tal- 
avera, who had always regarded Columbus as a 
dreaming speculator and needy applicant for 
bread. 

" Your terms are whollv inadmissible," added 
Sir Garcia, who was glad of any opportunity to 
thwart the man who had befriended his brother's 
child. 

One of the others, more favorable to Columbus, 
asked : 

" Won't you be satisfied with less ? " 

"No; nothing less than what I have stated," 
was the exalted answer. 

"It seems that this man who for years has been 
a threadbare solicitor at our ante-chambers will 
now be suited with nothing less than a proposi- 
tion that approaches the dignity of the throne," 
put in the sneering Sir Garcia. 



AGAIN DENIED. 107 

"Mj' uncle hates us, and he will defeat us yet," 
Hernando whispered to Columbus. 

The wise man thought he understood the cause 
of Sir Garcia's spleen. He gave the lad a hopeful 
smile, but would not yield an inch to the queen's 
ambassadors, who left him to make report to her 
majesty. 

" We are as far away now as ever," sobbed Her- 
nando, when he and Columbus were aloue. 

"I fear so," Columbus answered. 

"It's all on account of my uncle. I am the 
millstone which sinks you, senor." 

"Nay, lad, blame not yourself. Your uncle may 
hate me on your account, but it is not your fault. 
Heaven always rewards the just in the end." 

"Yes, seiior, but sometimes it is such a long 
distance to the end." 

Isabella was always attentive to the opinions of 
her ghostly advisers, and the archbishop, being 
her confessor, had a peculiar influence over her. 
As we have seen, he had been unduly prejudiced 
by Sir Garcia, and he concluded, in presenting the 
demands of Columbus, with the following: 

"Your gracious highness will see that this un- 
known man is making princely demands— de- 
mands which the dignity of the throne of Castile 
cannot consider. With a depleted treasury from 
long wars with the Moors, I could not advise your 
highness to accept such exorbitant terms." 



108 COLUMBTA. 

The queen bowed her head in thought, and 
then said : 

" The proposed advantages might be bought at 
too great a price. Offer more moderate condi- 
tions, and such as are highly honorable and ad- 
vantageous." 

The archbishop and his followers bowed, and 
quitted her rojal presence. 

Columbus was found awaiting the report from 
her majesty. He was cool, determined, and un- 
moved. 

" Have you her majesty's answer ? " he asked, as 
the archbishop and Sir Garcia entered his chamber. 

" She sends us to say that your demands are 
too great, but that we are authorized to make 
more moderate terms, yet such as are strictly 
h on orabl e ' ' 

"Say no more," interrupted Col ambus, impa- 
tiently. " I have made my demand, and I will 
listen to nothing less." 

" Will you really listen to nothing else? " 

" Tell your gracious queen that, notwithstand- 
ing my love and high regard for her majesty, I 
will in this matter not cede one point of my de- 
mand." 

"Is that your final answer? " 

" It is." 

"Shall we bear it to her?" 

" You can." 



AGATN DENIED. 109 

As they departed there was a look of fiendish 
triumph on the villanous face of Sir Garcia Este- 
van. He had ballvcd the great navigator. The 
more he saw of the attachment of Columbus to 
his nephew, the more he hated him and deter- 
mined to defeat him. 

'' The lad will share his honors, no doubt," 
thought Sir Garcia, "and, if they should succeed 
in this great discovery which he proposes, might 
supersede me in my title and estates. I must see 
that he does not succeed." 

The matter was reported as unfavorably as pos- 
sible to the queen, and she, still reluctant to give 
up the enterprise, was about to ask one more in- 
terview, when Fernando de Talavera interrupted 
her with : 

" It is useless, your majesty. This common 
sailor is too firmly set in his way to listen to 
reason. He is a dreamer, a speculator, and an 
adventurer, who has determined at all hazards to 
elevate himself to the nobility with succession 
forever." 

" What would you advise? " asked the queen. 

" Break of? all negotiations at once," put in Sir 
Garcia. 

" That's wholesome advice, your majesty," an- 
swered the archbishop. " I regard his plans as 
delusions, and himself as one gone mad over long 
speculations on vague and impossible theories." 



no COLUMBIA. 

Tlie queen was still rehictant. to (^ive np the 
plan. That patient, earnest, pleading face, those 
sad eyes, and the deep intonations of a convincing 
voice, which had carried conviction to her heart, 
haunted licr. But her advisers overruled her for 
the time being, and she said: 

"You mo,y inform him that negotiations ai-c at 
an end. " 

Columbus had been expecting such a ro))ort, 
and when it came he received the blow in meek- 
ness, liumilitv, and courage. 

Hernando sobbed for a few moments, for he 
keenly felt the disappointment. He felt that he 
was, in a measure, the cause of the failure. 

"Will you abandon the plan now?"' he asked. 

" My life is consecrated to this discovery," Co- 
lumbus answered. "My brother Bartholomew is 
in England and may have better success than I. 
I shall accei)t no paltry offer for a life's service, 
the greatest part of which has been consumed iu 
applications at various courts." 

Nothing could shake his perseverance, or make 
him descend to terms beneath the dignity of his 
enterprise. In all his negotiations he forgot his 
present obscurity and indigence. His ardent im- 
agination realized the magnitude of his contem- 
plated discoveries, and he felt that he was dis- 
cussing the destiny of a future empire. 

Though so large a portion of his life had worn 



AGAIN DENIED. HI 

away in fruitless solicitings, though there was no 
certainty that the same weary career was not to 
be entered upon at any other court, yet so indig- 
nant was lie at the repeated disappointments he 
had experienced in Spain, that ho dctcrinined to 
abandon it forever rather than compromise his 
demands. 

Hope long deferred liad made his heart sick, 
and lie felt it would bo a n^licf to l)e beyond the 
borders of Spain. 

When he informed the lad that he had deter- 
mined to leave him at the cottage near Palos, and 
seek in a foreign land the aid which had just been 
denied him, Hernando was greatly distressed. 

"I have encumbered you, F know ; and, but for 
me, you might have succeeded." 

" You are unjust to blame yourself ; I have no 
regrets that T have befriended you. Oft times 
when almost fainting you have encouraged me. 
Have no fears of the final result, for as each dis- 
appointment and failure only increase my deter- 
mination, I will yet succeed." 

The friends of Columbus gathered about him, 
and tried to dissuade him from going. Among 
fhem were Luis de St. Angel and Alonzo d.e Quin- 
tilla. 

" Surely after so nearly succeeding, you will not 
now abandon the cause," said the accountant- 
general. 



112 COLUMBIA. 

" Abandon the cause — no, I will never abandon 
the cause," Columbus answered, in his lofty 
manner. '' I am about to abandon Spain. I would 
have given to my adopted country the glory and 
honor of discovering a new world ; but they have 
declined the proffer, and I must now in a foreign 
land seek what is denied me at home." 

The mules were saddled ; and, sad and dejected, 
but by no means despairing, Columbus and thela'd 
mounted and rode away. His two friends stood 
and watched Columbus and the boy wend their 
way down the long road, and disappear around a 
spur of the mountain. 



> 



CHAPTER VIL 

AT THE BRIDGE OF PINOS. 

"Don't despair, Senor Colombo," said Her- 
nando, as they jogged along on their mules. 

" Being called of Heaven, I can't despair," was 
the answer, 

" Your faith is unbounded." 

" Faith is as strong as we make it." 

" One would think, after so many failures, that 
you would begin to doubt that you were really 
called of Heaven." 

To this Columbus slowly and solemnly made 

answer : 

" The ways of God are all mystery to us. He 
chasteneth those whom he loveth. We are not 
permitted to lift the veil and gaze into the futuer, 
and perhaps it's best that we are not. I have no 
doubt of Heaven having called me to this work, 
else why should I struggle on from year to year? 
It is useless to ask me to abandon the work. I 
cannot give it up, try as I will. I am powerless 
to resist the promptings of Heaven, and each 
failure only makes me more determined to succeed. 
Had I not been called of God, I should have long 
since despaired, and quitted the work in disgust." 
8 



114 COL UMBIA. 

" If God has really called you, why does 
He place so many obstacles in the way of suc- 
cess ? " 

"The ways of Providence are inscrutable, and 
beyond our understanding. We know not wh}^ 
the wicked seem to prosper while the good are 
oppressed with calamity and affliction ; yet an eye 
of faith can pierce through it all, and see even 
the golden prize beyond a world of sorrow and 
, darkness, I know God has called me, and this 
introductory school of disappointments may be 
necessary to fit me for the great work which is 
laid out before me." 

They journeyed on, and the boj", with his 
troubled eyes bent on the ground, was buried in 
painful thought. His wild fancy went out across 
land and sea, until from that far-ofl unknown 
region he again heard the groans of the captive 
long bound in chains, and waiting — waiting for 
freedom. 

" Oh, come, come, come ! " every hoof-beat 
seemed to say. Every whispering zephyr that 
stirred the leaves of the Andalusian forest seemed 
whispering " Come." Prom the mountain-top, from 
the valley, the winding steep, or the deep gorge at 
their side, there came to his ear the ever pathetic 
wail, " Come ! " He was a lad of most excellent 
fancy, and his lively imagination, stirred by long 
dwelling on the painful subject, seemed to go out 



AT THE BRIDOE OF PIN08. 115 

and converse with a captive father. Never was 
liallucination more a reality. 

Columbus, who was lost in thought, forgot the 
boy, until Hernando said : 

"Grant me one request, senor?" 

"Wbat?" 

"When you do go, can I go with you? " 

"Yes." 

" From whatever port your fleet of discovery 
may sail, let me go?" 

"I will, if possible." 

Hernando feared to part with Columbus lest 
he should forever lose sight of him,, and, losing 
him, lose all hope of carrying out the promise 
given a dying mother. It is so easy to forget 
absent friends, to drift along in the new course of 
events, and, forming other acquaintances, forget 
old ones amid new scenes, that Hernando feared 
this would be his fate. 

A sigh escaped his lips, as if he had not full 
faith in the promise of Columbus. During the 
many months he had journeyed with the great 
man from town to town, he had never known 
him to fail to keep his promise; but there were 
so many things to wean him away, that he doubted 
if he would be remembered. Then there was 
danger of years being spent in fruitless applica- 
tion. The white head was bent lower, and the 
frame seemed to have grown older, since the last 



116 COLUMBIA. 

hope had beei] shattered. All this while Her- 
nando pictured his father's fate so terribly that 
his brain reeled, and he felt at times as if reason 
must be dethroned. 

" Heaven grant that the required help may 
speedily come," mentally prayed the lad, as he 
rode by the side of the disappointed navigator, 
who was scarce less despondent than himself. 

Columbus was asking himself how much longer 
he could live under this strain. From the utmost 
depths of his soul, he felt the promptings of a 
mighty ambition inspired by the grandest motives 
— a great soul rising up within itself, and demand- 
ing recognition of the world. Had he all along 
been mistaken, and was he to die unhonored and 
unknown ? Were those great impulses within his 
breast to perish ere they could be given forth to 
the world, and, after all, was he to have inscribed 
on his tomb the word ^'•Failure " f 

" It is darkest just before dawn," says a wise 
old saw, and not infrequently this proves true. 
Never had Columbus been more despondent than 
on that February day in the year 1492, as he rode 
forth from Santa Fe, believing he had turned his 
back forever on Spain. Man proposes and God 
disposes, and Columbus little dreamed what 
course events would take ere he had finished 
his career. 

At the very moment he was in darkest despair. 



AT THE BRIDOE OF PINOS. 117 

and when he thought all lost,_he was on the verge 
of the one great triumph of his hfe. 

His enemies watched his departure with great 
satisfaction ; and Garcia Estevan and Fernando de 
Talavera, feeling confident they had forever done 
with the troublesome applicant, now quitted the 
side of the queen to engage in other matters leav- 
ing Isabella free to be approached by the friends 

of the navigator. . , 

Luis de St. Angel, receiver of the ecclesiastical 
revenues in Arragon, stood watching the form ot 
Columbus until he disappeared in the distance, 
and, turning to Alonzo de Quintilla, he said : 
" For shame, that Spain should lose so glorious 

a prize." 

" It is." 

" She must not." 

" How can this be prevented ? " asked Qumtilla. 

" We must see the queen, Quintilla. Now that 
Sir Garcia and the archbishop are away, we must 
see her and plead with her to accede to his terms. 
He demands nothing if he fails, and no more than 
he is justly entitled to if success crowns his 

efiorts." , 

" Your are right," answered the great-hearted 

Quintilla. „ 

" Let us haste to the queen, nor lose a moment. 
" Had we not better secure other aid ? " 
" Who ? " 



118 COLUMBIA. 

" The Marchioness of Moya has great influence 
with Isabella. This is an affair that will reflect 
glorj on our good queen throughout all ages to 
come." 

The friends of Columbus hastened to the pal- 
ace, and begged for an immediate audience with 
the queen. Fortunately they found the marchion- 
ess and several other friends at the court. Luis 
de St. Angel was principal spokesman, and the 
exigency of the moment gave him courage and 
eloquence. 

Isabella was a little surprised, as her officers 
almost thrust themselves unceremoniously in her 
presence ; but she was slow to anger, and listened 
to the impassioned entreaty of St. Angel, in which 
was even mingled rej^roaches : 

" Your majesties' subjects are both grieved and 
astonished that the good queen, who has evinced 
the spirit to undertake so many perilous enter- 
prises, should hesitate at one where the loss will 
be so trifling, while the gain may be incalculable. 
If Columbus succeeds, lie will win the honors he 
asks. Many a common soldier has been knighted 
for valor on the field of battle, and spurs thus 
won are of higher consideration than any hered- 
itary title or honor. If the navigator succeeds, 
and your majesty has great faith that he will, then 
is he not worthy of his demands ? Again, noble 
queen, I would remind you how much might be 



AT THE BRIDGE OF PINOS. . 119 

done for the glory of God, the exaltation of the 
Church, and the extension of your own dominion. 
Think what cause of regret to yourself, of triumph 
to your enemies, and of sorrow to your friends, 
should the enterprise you have rejected be accom- 
plished by some other power; and it will be, if 
you refuse the offer made by Columbus. Eemem- 
ber, great and noble princess, what fame other 
princes have acquired by their discoveries, and 
here is an opportunity which surpasses them all. 
I entreat your majesty not to be misled by the 
assertion of learned men that the project is the 
dream of a visionary. The judgment of Columbus 
is sound and his plans practical. Even his failure 
would not reflect disgrace upon the crown. It is 
worth the trouble and expense to clear up even a 
matter of doubt upon a subject of such great im- 
portance, for it belongs to enlightened and mag- 
nanimous princes to investigate questions of the 
kind, and to explore the wonders and secrets of 
the universe. Columbus liberally offered to bear 
one-eighth of the expense, and I can assure you 
that all the requisites for this great enterprise will 
consist of but two vessels and about three thou- 
sand crowns. I beseech your majesty, do not 
allow this golden opportunity of placing new 
laurels on your brow to escape. Send yet, while 
there is time, a messenger after this man Colum- 
bus, and bring him back." 



120 COLUMBIA. 

The argument was made with that persuasive 
power which honest zeal imparts, and the Queen 
of Castile was greatl}' moved bj the force of it. 

The Marchioness of Moya exerted her eloquence 
to persuade the queen, in language and manner 
so earnest that Isabella could no longer resist. 
Her generous spirit was enkindled, and it seemed 
as if, for the first time, the subject broke on her 
mind in all its real grandeur, and at the conclusion 
of the marchioness's appeal she declared : 

" I have formed mj resolution ; I will under- 
take the enterprise." 

She cast a glance at Ferdinand, as if seeking 
his approval, but the king only shook his head. 

" What says my liege, will you join me in this 
great enterprise? " asked the beautiful queen, 

" I cannot," was the answer. 

"Why?" 

Ferdinand had all along looked coldly on this 
scheme, and during the hottest of the discussion 
had remained silent. It was only when appealed 
to that he spoke at all. 

" Our royal finances have been absolutely 
drained by the war, and some time must be given 
to replenish them." 

" Do you disapprove the plan ? " 

*' Not if we had the money, but, not having it, 
it is useless to talk of expenses." 

" Had you the funds, would you conseut? " 



AT THE BRIDGE OF PINOS. 121 

" That is not under consideration ; we have not 
the money," the king answered. 

The queen had declared that her resolution was 
formed and she would undertai^e the enterprise, 
but how could she draw on an exhavisted treasury 
for a measure to which the king was adverse? 

There was a moment of hesitation, and all 
watched this suspense with trembling anxiety. 
The next moment all were assured. With an 
enthusiasm worthy of herself and the cause, 
Isabella exclaimed: 

" I undertake the enterprise for my own crown 
of Castile, and will pledge my jewels to raise the 
necessary funds." 

This was the proudest moment in the life of 
Isabella ; it stamped her renown forever as the 
patroness of the discovery of the New World. 

St. Angel, eager to secure this noble impulse, 
cried : 

" I assure your majesty it is not necessary to 
pledge your jewels, as I am ready to advance the 
necessary funds." 

" Can you ? " cried the queen. 

" I can, and with your leave I will. All we 
ask is your sanction." 

" I give it." 

" Then we will send for Columbus, and enter at 
once into the contract." 

"Where is he?" 



122 COLUMBIA. 

" He left the city for the port of Palos, doubt- 
less to take his departui'e from Spain forever." 

"Let a courier be despatched at once, and 
instruct liim to stay not his flight until he lias 
overtaken the navigator. Send for a courier at 
once." 

The king did not try to dissuade the queen, 
but, seeing she was determined in the matter, 
quitted the council chamber, while a page went 
for a courier. 

We had as well state in this connection that St. 
Angel really secured the funds for this expedition 
from the coffers of Arragon ; seventeen thousand 
florins being advanced by the accountant out of the 
treasury of King Ferdinand. Tljat prudent mon- 
arch, however, took care to have his kingdom 
indemnified some few j^ears later; for in remun- 
eration of this loan, a part of the first gold 
brought from the New World was employed in 
gilding the vaults and ceiling of the royal saloon 
in the grand palace of Saragoza, in Arragon, 
anciently the Aljaferia, or abode of the Moorish 
kings. 

While the page was seeking a courier, the 
queen was all impatience, lest Columbus should 
be gone so far that she could not bring him 
back. 

" We must not lose this chance," she cried, 
wringing her hands in her great anxiety. "I 



AT THE BRIDGE OF PINO 8. 123 

never understood this subject before. If I had, 
it would have been attended to long ago." 

"Your majesty must not blame yourself," put 
in St. Angel. '' It will not be too late," 

" Why does the courier not come ? " 

" He will arrive in due time." 

" But just now a moment is an age. Every 
second of precious time he is getting farther and 
farther away, and may be beyond our recall, ere 
our courier can overtake him." 

At this moment a courier entered in breathless 
haste, for he knew that some matter of great 
moment was about to be intrusted to him. 

" Mount the swiftest horse in the royal stables, 
and ride for life, until you overtake Christopher 
Columbus, now on his waj^ to Palos," said the 
queen, panting with excitement. " Tell him the 
queen accedes to his proposal, and asks his imme- 
diate return." 

"Who is this Columbus?" asked the courier, 
for at this time Columbus was not generally 
known among the court attaches. " Describe 
him." 

"With your majesty's permission, I will," put 
in St. Angel. 

" Proceed," the queen answered. 

Then St. Angel resumed : 

" He is tall and erect, with hair and beard of 
snowy whiteness, though but fifty-six. His face 



124 COL UMBIA. 

is heavily furrowed with sorrow, disappointment, 
and care, rather than age. He rides a mule, is 
accompanied by a boy fifteen or sixteen years of 
age, similarly mounted, and is now on his way 
across the Vega to the bridge of Pinos." 

" Go, fly ! " cried the queen. " The future glory 
and renown of Spain depend on your speed." 

" Your majesty, I will go." 

The courier bowed and quickly retired. A 
powerful black Arabian horse, noted for speed 
and endurance, was saddled, and leaping on his 
back the courier sped away like the wind in pur- 
suit of the man who but a few hours before had 
been rejected. 

The weather was mild notwithstanding it was 
February, In this delightful_ semi-tropical clime 
the rigors of winter are scarce ever known. The 
day was almost as mild as a May day in New 
England, and tropical plants were blooming along 
the roadside. Feathered warblers were carolling 
their sweetest songs, and all nature seemed to 
rejoice. Man, who should be the happiest of all 
creation, being made in the image of God, alone 
was sad. 

Columbus and his young companion paid little 
heed to the beauties which grew in spontaneous 
abundance all about their pathway, their minds 
being filled with vexatious thoughts and disap- 
pointments. The sun had long since passed the 



AT THE BRIDGE OF PINOS. 125 

meridian, and was descending low in the horizon, 
and yet man and boy journeyed on, forgetful of 
the fact that they had journeyed over the noonday 
hour without halting for rest or refreshments. 

Childhood is joyous. It is the exception that 
gloom and despair settle over a young mind, and 
Hernando, despite the recent disappointments, was 
won back to nature by the frisking, twittering 
birds. 

They had pursued their lonely journey across 
the Vega and reached the pass approaching the 
bridge of Pinos, about two leagues from Granada, 
at the foot of the mountain Elvira — a pass famous 
in the Moorish wars for many a desperate en- 
counter between the Christian and inlidel. The 
shadows were lengthening, and the eyes of the 
lad were wandering away to westward, when there 
suddenly came on the air the sound of horse's 
hoofs. 

Deeply buried in thought, Columbus heard them 
not, but the quick ear of his young companion 
felt the concussion, and turning in his saddle he 
saw a man mounted on a black charger, coming 
after them at full speed. His splendid attire and 
glittering trappings indicated that he was a servant 
of the royal household, and for a moment the youth 
was speechless in wonder. The pursuer took off 
his gorgeously plumed hat, swung it in the air, 
and in a loud voice called to them to halt. Tliev 



126 COLUMBIA. 

had just reached the bridge of Pinos when the 
shout reached their ears. 

" We are pursued, Senor Colombo," said the 
lad. 

Turning in his saddle, Columbus gave the ap- 
proaching man a hasty glance, and remarked : 

" It's the queen's courier ; he comes to bring 
us news." A glow of oft-revived hope beamed 
brightly in the face of the navigator. 

" llalt, halt, halt!" cried the courier, waving 
his hat above his head. 

"He means us, senor," tbe boy said. "Shall 
we halt and wait for him ? " 

"Yes." 

They stopped almost on the bridge, and here 
were overtaken by the queen's courier, spurring 
at full speed. 

"Are you Christopher Columbus?" asked the 
courier, reining in his panting steed. 

" I am," was the answer. 

" The queen has sent me to summon you back 
to Sante Fe." 

Columbus hesitated for a moment. Was it 
worth while to return and subject himself to the 
delays and equivocations of the coui't? 

"I doubt whether it is better to delay my 
departure," he remarked. " I gave the queen ray 
terms and she has rejected them, and I will do no 
better." 




WE AKE PUHSUED, SENOR COLUMBUS." 



AT THR BRIDGE OF PINOS. 127 

"Oh, senor, try once more," began the boy. 

" She concedes to your terms," interrupted the 
courier. "A sudden zeal has been excited in the 
mind of our queen, and she has given your friends 
positive assurance that she will undertake the 
enterprise, even thougb slie pledges her jewels to 
raise the necessary funds." 

"Go, senor, go," cried Hernando, who was all 
hope and joy. "We will yet succeed, and my 
father will be rescued." 

No longer feeling a doubt, Columbus wheeled 
his mule" about and hastened back with joyful 
alacrity to Santa Fe, confiding in the noble pro- 
bity of the princess. 



CHAPTER VIIL 

FEOM GLOOM TO SUNLIGHT. 

Let those disposed to faint under difficulties, 
in the prosecution of any laudable undertaking, 
remember that eighteen years elapsed after the 
time Columbus conceived his enterprise before 
he was enabled to carry it into effect; that the 
greater part of that time was passed in almost 
hopeless solicitation amid poverty, neglect, and 
taunting ridicule ; that the prime of his life 
had wasted away in the struggle, and when his 
perseverance was finally crowned with success 
he was in his fifty-sixth year. His example 
should encourage the enterprising to never de- 
spair. 

It was nightfall ere Columbus reached Santa 
Fe, but the queen had made provisions for him 
and the boy to be lodged in a wing of the castle, 
and next morning she assured him herself that his 
terms would be agreed upon. 

" The king does not favor it," the queen con- 
tinued, " and I undertake it for mycrown of Cas- 
tile; yet I feel confident that we can win him over 
to a nominal consent, at least." 

"His signature to the agreement would give 



FROM OLOOM TO SUNLIGHT. 129 

great weight to my authority," Columbus an- 
swered. 

"And I shall seek to obtain it. But, Senor 
Colombo, is this little boy whom I always see 
with you your son ? " 

" No, your majest}'. He is a lad with whom I 
was accidentally thrown, and who wishes to go 
witb me on the voyage. I have a son, for whom I 
liave a favor to ask." 

"What favor?" 

" When I sail I leave him practically an orphan 
among strangers. He will be unprovided for, as 
all my means, as well as the substance of friends, 
are hazarded in this enterprise. He is a brigbt, 
honest, earnest lad, and would serve you in any 
capacity. Can you not give him some position ? " 

The generous-hearted queen was moved toward 
the little fellow wlio was to be left alone and 
friendless in Spain, and after a few moments' re- 
flection answered : 

"I will make bim a page to our young Prince 
Juan, tbe heir apparent, with an allowance for his 
support." 

Columbus was deeply moved at the good queen's 
proposition. It was more tban he had ever hoped 
for, and seemed like the realization of a fairy 
dream, for this was an honor granted only to per- 
sons of distinguished rank, and at first lie could 
hardly believe she meant it, 
9 



130 COLUMBIA. 

Diego was at once sent for, and as Hernando 
still lingered at Santa Fe, he met the son of his 
benefactor, Thej were soon fast friends, and 
were seldom separated until Diego's appointment 
was confirmed, and the lad had entered on his 
duties. 

In their rambles about the court and city the 
boys related their personal histories. 

"I go with your father to find a father lost," 
sighed Hernando, 

"And I remain, perhaps to lose a father," Diego 
answered. 

"Be of good cheer, for he will succeed in his 
great enterprise, and make your name among the 
brightest handed down in history," 

"I have read of great men, and their lives have 
always had more sorrow than joy in them. To 
be great means to be miserable, and I sometimes 
wonder if honors gained in conquest or discovery 
arc worth the pains." 

They had wandered beyond the walls of the 
city, and were sitting under the wide-spread- 
ing branches of a giant old oak. A cavalier 
was discovered galloping down the road toward 
them. 

He wore no helmet or visor, and his features 
could be plainly seen, Hernando started to his 
feet, gasping: 

" It is my Uncle Garcia ! " 



FROM GLOOM TO SUNLIOHT. 131 

Diego Columbus, having heard the dark story 
of wrongs, felt his bosom swell with indignation, 
and was strongly inclined, boy as be was, to 
denounce the sneering villain. 

Sir Garcia drew rein in front of the boys, and, 
fixing his eyes on Hernando, asked: 

" Were you with Columbus ? " 

"I was." 

" Arc you his son? " 

"No; there is bis son." 

" Was he made page to Prince Juan ? " 

"He was." 

"Are you going with Columbus on this voy- 
age?" 

" I am." 

" Is your name Hernando Estevan ? " 

"It is." 

Tbe knight nodded his head and rode away. 
For a long time tbe boys stood gazing after him, 
and at last Diego asked : 

" What does he mean ? " 

" I cannot say," Hernando answered. 

" Whatever his meaning may be, it bodes you 
no good, Hernando." 

" Perchance not. He aided the wicked Moor to 
work my father's ruin, and I doubt not he would 
do me an injury if be dared." 

Sir Garcia Estevan was ill at ease, and when he 
had reached his own chamber he sat down to 



132 



COLUMBIA. 



meditate on matters and determine what course to 
pursue. 

" Columbus succeeded at the moment we thought 
defeat assured," reflected the villain, a dangerous 
sneer on his handsome face. " He takes Eoder- 
igo's son with him on this voyage of discovery. 
If I was assured that Eoderigo was dead, there 
would be less to fear ; but, if living, and the expe- 
dition of Columbus proves successful, then may I 
have cause to tremble. Even if Roderigo be 
dead, and the son comes to share the glories of 
Columbus, he may even yet displace me ; for the 
lad evidently has his ambition, and hates his 
uncle. I must defeat the voyage." 

Long he pondered over the curious case, and 
finally called his esquire. 

"Do you know where the sailor Miguel can be 
found," he asked. 

" I do. Sir Garcia." 

" Bring him to me at once." 

"I will." 

The esquire bowed and took his departure. 
The knight took off his greaves and breastplate, 
and hung them by his sword upon the rack. An 
hour later the sailor was ushered into his presence. 
Miguel bowed and stood humbly before the knight, 
his hat in his hands. , 

" I am very much interested in you, Miguel," 
remarked the knight, with a smile on his hand- 



FROM GLOOM TO SUNLIGHT. 133 

some face. " I have become so interested in you 
that I have taken the pains to examine into your 
past history." 

Miguel grew uneasy and hung his head. 

" I know all ; you have been engaged in many 
shady enterprises ; among them, perhaps, smug- 
gling is the least." 

"Oh, sir knight " 



" Peace, be still ! I have not declared that it 
was my intention to prosecute you on what infor- 
mation I have, but I sent for you to learn if you 
are willing to serve me." 

" With my life, my lord." 

" Swear it ! " 

" I do — on the holy cross." 

"If you prove false, you shall pay the forfeit 
with your life." 

"I know it. What would you have me do, my 
lord?" 

" Columbus has secured aid of the crown in a 
voyage, and rumor has already gone the rounds 
that he will sail from the port of Palos. He takes 
with him on that voyage a boy named Hernando, 
a mildly insane lad, filled with an hallucination 
that his father is a captive on some island far off 
in the western seas. You must see to it that the 
voyage is a failure." 

"How shall I?" 

" Hasten to Palos and ship as one of the crew 



134: COLUMBIA. 

on board the admiral's vessel ; then jou will find 
many ways of bringing about a failure. Incite a 
mutiny." 

"Ay, I see." 

"Scuttle the ship." 

" And lose my own life." 

" Do it while so near land that you may escape. 
But if that be too difficult, see that neither the lad 
nor Christopher Columbus comes back alive." 

"I understand you, my lord." 

" If necessary, wield the dagger ; you know 
how to do it. Assassinate both ere they return 
to triumph over me." 

" I understand " 

" Your reward shall be two thousand florins for 
slaying them, but slay not unless success should 
promise to crown their efforts," 

"Why not slay even though they fail ? " 

"I care not to have blood unnecessarily on my 
garments. If they fail, they return humiliated, 
and I do not care to take their lives. Only in 
case of success are they dangerous. You can, by 
inciting the crew to mutiny, bring about a failure. 
The ships are richly laden ; seize them and sail to 
some foreign port, where you can dispose of ves- 
sels and cargo to an advantage." 

Miguel thought it not a bad idea. While they 
are hatching up a plot at which even Satan might 
blush, we will give one more glance at Columbus 



FROM GLOOM TO 8UNL1GUT. 135 

and the king and queen, with whom he was closing 
negotiations. 

A perfect understanding having been effected 
with the sovereigns, articles of agreement were 
ordered to be drawn out by Juan de Coloma, the 
royal secretary. They were to the following effect: 

^^First, That Columbus should have for him- 
self, during his life, and his heirs and successors 
forever, the office of admiral in all the lands and 
continents which he might discover or acquire 
in the ocean, with similar honors and prerogatives 
to those enjoyed by the high admiral of Castile 
in his district. 

^^ Second, That he should be viceroy and gov- 
ernor-general over all of said lauds and continents ; 
with the privilege of nominating three candidates 
for the government or province, one of whom 
should be selected by the sovereigns. 

"I'AzVo?, That he should be entitled to reserve 
for himself one-tenth of all pearls, precious stones, 
gold, silver, spices, and all other articles of mer- 
chandise, in whatever manner found, brought, bar- 
tered, or gained within his admiralty, the costs 
being first deducted. 

^'•Fourth^ That he or his lieutenant should be 
the sole judge in all causes and disputes arising 
out of traffic between those countries and Spain, 
provided the high admiral of Castile had similar 
jurisdiction in his district. 



136 COLUMBIA. 

^^ Fifth, That he might then, and at all after 
times, contribute an eighth part of the expense in 
fitting out vessels to sail on this enterprise, and 
receive an eighth part of the profits." 

The last stipulation in the contract, admitting 
Columbus to bear an eighth of the enterprise, was 
made in consequence of his indignant proffer on 
being reproached b_y Sir Garcia Estevan with de- 
manding ample emoluments, while incurring no 
part of the expense. Through the aid of the 
Pinzons of Palos he fulfilled the engagement, and 
added a third vessel to the armament. Thus one- 
eighth of the expense attendant on this grand ex- 
pedition, undertaken by a powerful nation, was 
actually borne by the individual who conceived 
it, and who staked his life on its success. 

So slow were the papers in preparation that 
the capitulations were not signed by Ferdinand 
and Isabella until the seventeenth day of April, 
1492, when they were duly executed at the city 
of Santa Fe, in the Vega or plain of Granada. 

A commission was drawn out in form and issued 
by the sovereigns to Columbus, in the city of 
Granada, on the thirtieth of the same month ; in 
which the dignities and prerogatives of viceroy 
and governor were made hereditary in his family ; 
and he and his heirs were authorized to prefix the 
title of Don to their names, a distinction in those 
days accorded only to persons of rank and estate. 



FROM OLOOM TO 8UJSLI0UT. 137 

The chief aim of Columbus was the propaga- 
tion and extension of the Christian religion, and 
the rescue of the Holy Sepulchre from the hand of 
the infidel. The latter was the dream of his life, 
and great aim for which he labored. Believing 
he would reach the western shore of Asia, letters 
to the Grand Khan of Tartary were issued to him 
by the king and queen of Spain. 

While these negotiations were pending at court, 
Hernando Estevan left Granada, and hastened to 
his cottage home to acquaint those whom he loved 
of their success, and spend a few days with them 
ere he took his de])arture on that voyage to seek 
an unknown world. 

lie had been away almost three years, return- 
ing only at long intervals, and everything was 
slightly changed. Dame Doria had grown older, 
stouter, and her hair was a little grayer. The 
furrows on her face had deepened, but she was 
still strong and active. 

The greatest change was in Christina. She 
was now thirteen years of age, and had developed 
a rare and wonderful beauty. With that develop- 
ment came other changes. 

When he came to greet her with a brotherly 
kiss as of old, she shrank from him, and her cheek 
flushed hot with a richer crimson than the cactus 
flower. Tlic lad asked himself what it meant. 
Had she grown afraid oi hiui, or had his long 



138 COLUMBIA. 

absence made her careless about him? Hernando 
was grieved by her treatment, until, on the next 
day after his arrival, he accidentally caught her 
kissing a small present he had brought her from 
Granada. The lad could not at first comprehend 
the world of tenderness she evinced for this bauble. 
Amber does not shed so sweet a perfume as the 
veriest trifles touched by those we love, and this 
simple gift was to the young girl an object of her 
youthful adoration. 

" Why is Christina so changed ? " Hernando 
asked himself again and again. 

From the moment of his arrival the coy little 
maiden had felt her heart agitated by a sensation 
new and strange to her. Her beautiful blue eyes 
lost their lustre, her cheek its freshness, and her 
frame was overpowered with a universal languor. 
Serenity no longer sat upon her brow nor played 
upon her lips. At one moment she was gay with- 
out cause for joy ; at the next, melancholy or 
abashed without any apparent reason. She fled 
her innocent amusements, her gentle toil ; and even 
the society of Hernando and the good old seiiora 
seemed to increase her bewilderment — wandering 
about among the woods and rocky glens, every- 
where seeking the rest she could not find. 

One day, while wandering about the rocky 
steeps, she suddenly came on Hernando, who was 
seeking her, and advanced sportively to meet him, 



FROM GLOOM TO SUNLIGHT. I39 

but was suddenly overcome by confusion; Lor 
pale cheeks were covered with blushes, and her 
eyes no longer dared meet his. 

" Christina," cried Hernando, as she turned 
away, " why do you always fly from me? " 

His voice, so gentle and tender, reached her 
ear, and arrested her almost fleeing steps. She 
paused, her e^-es still on the ground, and stood 
trembling, from what cause she could not tell. 

Slowly and carefully, as a child advances on 
a hare which it fears will take fright, the boy 
advanced to the coy maiden. 

" Christina, why are you so unhappy? Why do 
you shun me in this way ? Our happiest moments 
have been spent wandering, hand in hand, among 
this scenery along the beach. Our days together 
are few indeed, for soon I shall depart on an 
unknown sea to seek a lost father. Can't you 
greet me as the dear little sister you once were ? I 
may never — never return from the great unknown 
water. Many have sailed away upon it, but none 
ever came back." 

He was interrupted by a convulsive sob, and 
saw tears trickling down her prettj^ cheeks. 
Blaming himself for causing her needless pain, 
Hernando sprang to her side, and clasping the 
maiden in his arms, pressed a kiss upon her tear- 
bedewed cheek, and cried : 

" Forgive me, Christina ; I have wounded you." 



140 COL UMBIA. 

" Hernando, brother, jou are all I have to love, 
for the cruel infidel left nie without a kindred on 
earth. It grieves me to see jou depart on such a 
voyage." 

Abashed at her own voice, the coy maiden was 
again seized with an almost uncontrollable desire to 
fly, Hernando placed an arm about the trembling 
seiiorita. She started as if she felt an electric 
thrill, but he held her fast, and overcome with an 
emotion as sudden as it was overpowering, she 
threw her arms about her foster-brother's neck, 
and sobbed bitterly. Her tired soul found mo- 
mentary rest, but it was only for a moment. 
When he sought to soothe her by his embraces, 
she turned away her head, and fled toward the 
ocean. The caresses of lier brother excited too 
much emotion in her heart, and she sought the 
solitude of the surf-beaten shore. 

Hernando, unused to the secret windings of the 
female heart, vexed himself in vain, endeavoring 
to comprehend the meaning of these new and 
strange caprices. But all was in vain. Shy, coy, 
and distant as she was, her eyes were always on 
him, and her heart was his. He went to the cot- 
tage, where he told the old granddame of her 
changed demeanor, and Dame Doria answered : 

" Christina and yourself will soon be children 
no longer. Familiarities common in childhood can 
in your changed states no longer be thought of." 



FROM GLOOM TO SUNLIGHT. 141 

The lad's face was sad, and, gaining no consola- 
tion from his granddame, he sought the comforting 
solitude of the sea-side. There he sat listening to 
the sobbing wavelets beating gently against the 
pebbly strand, or the far-oii" splash of the porpoise 
in the water. Was his father soon to be found 
and rescued from a life of slavery? he asked him- 
self, or had he been all along laboring under a 
delusion? 

His father might be sleeping beneath the sea, 
and his search would be in vain. He was never 
more sad than now, as he sat listening to the sad 
sea waves. 

A gentle footstep on the sands behind started 
the lad from his painful revery, and, quickly 
turning, he beheld Christina, her face flushed with 
modest confusion. Again she was about to fly, 
when a glance at his sad, pale face won her to his 
side. 

'' Are you ill ? " she asked. 

" I am sad, Christina. I feel as if my heart 
would break." 

" Why are you sad ? " 

" My sister is so changed." 

"How am I changed? " 

" She flies from me as if she either despised or 
feared me. Which is it? " 

" Neither." And the head hung and the beauti- 
ful eyes drooped beneath his gaze. He had been 



142 COLUMBIA. 

watching the sweet unfolding bud all these years, 
and uoted the dawn of a glorious womanhood — 
the blooming of a flower that was to exceed in 
beauty and fragrance the rarest exotic of all flow- 
ery Spain. 

"Have I grown hateful to your sight, that you 
should seek to avoid me? Am I a thing to be 
despised, that you should shun me? What has 
caused this great change? Why this wonderful 
revolution of sentiment ? " 

Smiling sweetly on him, she answered: "My 
dear brother, you wrong me." 

" I trust I do." 

" You have grown far dearer to me, now that I 
am about to lose you, than ever before. Brother, 
forgive my foolish coyness, and remember that we 
both have changed ; you have grown so big and 
stout, and I — -I will soon cease to be a child. I 
cannot understand myself, but believe me, brother, 
when I say I love you more dearly than ever." 

Again he embraced her, and for a long while 
they sat side by side enclasped in each other's 
arms, while the sad sea waves beat upon the beach 
beneath their feet. This dawning affection was 
so new and strange that they mutely listened to 
the roar of distant breakers. 

Far away beyond the blue sea went the thoughts 
of the lad. Was the coming voyage, after all, but 
the freak of a madman ? Was Columbus him- 



FROM OLOOM TO SUNLIGHT. 143 

self only a clever lunatic who had deceived the 
crown, and, like the siren in the fable, was des- 
tined to lure ships and crews to ruin? But in a 
moment Hernando's faith cast out all doubt, and 
Columbus was what he professed — a learned and 
experienced navigator. 

After a long silence the beautiful girl at his 
side asked : 

" When does the fleet sail ? " 
"It may yet be two or three months." 
" Why need we fill the few days left to us with 
gloom? Let's be bright and cheerful." 

" Our lives have been such a perpetual ^Idom 
that a burst of sunshine is almost dazzling : so 
let us welcome it. This is a period of from gloom 
to sunlight, for Columbus, after so many years, 
has triumphed over educated prejudice and en- 
trenched ignorance. I will go find my father and 
return, Christina, never again to leave your side 
until death do us part." 

With a glad cr}^ the seuorita threw her arms 
about his neck and wept tears in anticipation of 
future happiness. 



CHAPTER IX. 

SEEKING AN UNKNOWN WOELD. 

One bright June morning Hernando and Chris- 
tina as usual were strolling along the beach when 
they espied a small sail-boat put into shore. The 
single occupant sprang out, made his craft fast in 
the mouth of the creek, and hurried toward them. 
He was a short, stoop-shouldered sailor, with a 
short beard on his chin, and long hair. 

There was something in his downcast, hang-dog 
look which at once aroused the suspicions of the 
sehorita, and she shuddered as .he approached. 

" Are you Hernando Estevan ? " asked the sailor, 
halting when within half a dozen paces of them. 

"I am," the lad answered. 

" You are wanted at Palos." 

" Who sent for me ? " 

" The new admiral, Christopher Columbus, and 
I am sent to bring you." 

" Who are you?" 

"Miguel the sailor, who sails in the commo- 
dore's ship." 

"Don't go," whispered Christina, who was 
trembling with dread. "I pray you, don't go." 

"I must, if the admiral has ordered me aboard." 



SEEKING AN UNKNOWN WORLD 145 

"But don't go with him. He's a bad man, and 
I fear will do you some harm." 

Miguel, who was unable to comprehend the 
whispering, took a step or two nearer, and added : 

" You must go with me, lad, for it is the com- 
mand of the admiral." 

" Why did he send for me by sea when it is 
three leagues nearer to Palos by land ? " 

" I suppose the admiral wants to give you a 
taste of salt water," answered Miguel, with a sus- 
picious grin. 

"Don't go, don't," pleaded Christina. 

" Leave him to me," was the whispered response 
of the lad. 

" Are you ready ? " asked the sailor. 

" I must go to the cottage and get my arms, 
armor, and clothing. As the load will be heavy 
for one, will you come and help me?" Hernando 
asked, in a manner calculated to throw the sailor 
off his guard. 

" That I will, my lad." 

Then, as Hernando walked back to the cottage 
with the trembling Christina clinging to his arm, 
he kept up a conversation with Miguel concerning 
the fleet and armament, so as to completely disarm 
his suspicions. When the cottage was reached 
the granddame was made acquainted with the 
admiral's order, and the good old seuora wept bit- 
terly over the departure of her grandson. Her- 
10 



146 COLUMBIA. 

nando gathered up sucli articles as he wished to 
take, and gave them to the sailor, saying : 

" Carry these to your boat. I will go as soon 
as I have bid my relatives adieu." 

Miguel took the bundle, leaving only the sword 
and cross-bow for Hernando to carry. When he 
was gone, the lad kissed his granddame farewell, 
embraced the weeping Christina, and said : 

" Now I go to Pal OS." 

" You said you would not go with the sailor," 
cried the sobbing maiden. 

" Nor will I," he answered. " I will go by land 
across the country, and beat his boat by several 
hours. If he comes back for me, tell him I am 
gone and he will find me in Palos, Come to port 
and see us sail." 

After a second tender farewell the youth buckled 
on his sword, shouldered his cross-bow, and set 
out across the country, over hills and through for- 
ests, to the seaport town of Palos. 

An hour later the sailor again came to the cot- 
tage to inquire why Hernando was detained. 

"He is already on his way to Palos this hour 
past," the granddame made answer. 

"Gone to Palos? " cried the astounded Miguel. 

"Yes." 

" How did he go ? " 

" On foot, across the mountains. You will find 
him there when you arrive." 



SEEKING AN UNKNOWN WORLD. I47 

Turning away, Migael hastened to liis boat, 
murmuring to himself: 

"His suspicions are aroused, and now I will 
have trouble." 

He lost no time in setting sail for Palos, which 
port he reached two hours after the arrival of 
Hernando. 

Columbus reached Palos on the 22d of May, 
and went at once to the neighboring convent of 
La Rabida, wberehe was gladly received by the 
worthy friar Fray Juan Perez, who in the excess 
of his joy said : 

" You have at last received your long, well-mer- 
ited reward, my son." 

The port of Palos had been condemned to serve 
the crown for one year with two armed caravels, 
which were destined to form part of the armament 
of Columbus. 

On the 23d of May, Columbus, accompanied by 
Fray Juan Perez, proceeded to the Church of St. 
George in Palos, where the alcalde, the regidors, 
and many of the inhabitants had been ordered to 
attend. A notary public, standing on the porch 
of the church, read the royal order, commanding 
the authorities of Palos to have two armed cara- 
vels ready for sea within ten days, and place them 
at the disposal of Columbus, who was empowered 
to fit out a third vessel. The crews of all three 
were to receive the ordinary wages of seamen em- 



148 COLUMBIA. 

ployed in armed vessels, and to have four months' 
pay advanced. They were to sail in such direc- 
tion as Columbus under royal authority should 
command, and were in all things to obey him. 
Tliey were forbidden to go to St, George La Mina, 
on the coast of Guinea, or any other port of the 
lately discovered possessions of Portugal. 

The public authorities and the people of all 
ranks and conditions in the maritime borders of 
Andalusia were commanded to furnish supplies 
and assistance of all kinds, at reasonable prices, 
for the fitting out of the vessels ; and penalties 
were denounced on such as should cause any im- 
pediment. 

Among those gathered about the cliurch listen- 
ing to the orders was Miguel, who was among the 
first to volunteer. No sooner had he done so, than 
he went to a young, timid recruit, and said: 

"Do you know where we are to sail? " 

" No," was the answer. 

"We go to seek an unknown world." 

"We do?" and his cheek grew pale. 

"That man is Colombo, the madman of Genoa, 
who is going to sail around the world, through 
a sea of liquid fire, to islands inhabited by winged 
beasts and dragons, where giants fifty cubits high 
live on the flesh of shipwrecked mariners, a laud 
whence no one ever returns who has once entered 
within the doomed vale." 



SEEKING AN UNKNOWN WORLD. 149 

This wild storj spread rapidly, but so shrewd- 
ly did Miguel manage it, that Columbus never 
dreamed that he had betrayed the expedition. 
The owners of vessels refused to furnish them. 
The boldest seamen sbi'ank from such a wild, chi- 
merical cruise in the wilderness of the ocean. All 
kinds of frightful tales and fables were conjured 
up concerning the unknown regions of the deep ; 
and nothing can be stronger evidence of the bold- 
ness of this undertaking, than the extreme dread 
in which some of the most adventurous navigators 
held it. 

Columbus, unsuspicious of Miguel, despatched 
him for the youth, as we have seen. Weeks 
elapsed without anything being done. Further 
mandates were issued by the sovereigns, ordering 
the magistrates of the coast of Andalusia to press 
into service any vessels they might think proper. 
Juan de Penalosa, an officer of the royal house- 
hold, was sent to see that this order wr.s properly 
complied with. The order was acted upon by Co- 
lumbus in Palos and the neighboring town of 
Moguer, but with as little success as the preceding. 

The communities of those places were thrown 
into confusion. Tumults ensued, and on several 
occasions they were on the eve of riot. 

" I thought our troubles over," said Hernando 
to Columbus, a few days after joining him, " but 
they seem to have just commenced." 



150 COLUMBIA. 

"I will see Martin Alonzo Pinzon and his broth- 
er on the morrow," Columbus answered. " We 
need their services again, and cannot succeed with- 
out them." 

"I thought, having the aid of the crown, none 
other was needed." 

"Just now Martin Alonzo Pinzon and his 
brothers may be more effective than the king and 
queen. They are navigators of great courage and 
ability, owning vessels and having seamen in their 
employ. They have many relatives among the 
seafaring inhabitants of Palos and Moguer, and 
great influence throughout the neighborhood. If 
they decide to go with us, it would inspire cour- 
age and confidence in all the others." 

Next day Columbus sent for Martin Alonzo and 
his brother, Vincent Yanez Pinzon, and after 
making them acquainted with the true situation, 
said : 

" You see the strait to which I am reduced. 
Although backed by the crown, I want more. I 
need men who will inspire the sailors with confi- 
dence. You have both stood by me since first we 
met. You admit the plausibility of my theory. 
Will 3^ou still further aid me ? " 

Alonzo Pinzon asked for time to confer with 
his brother, and, Columbus assenting, they retired 
to a separate apartment. Hernando remained in 
the outside hall with Columbus, who, with his ven- 



SEEKING AN UNKNOWN WORLD. 151 

erable head bowed, and hands clasped behind his 
back, paced up and down before the room in 
which the Pinzons were in consultation. After 
two hours, the door ojDcned, and the brothers 
came out. Columbus paused and fixed his great, 
sad eyes on them with an eager, inquiring look. 

" We have decided to go," said Martin Pinzon. 
"We will furnish one of the vessels, and both ac- 
company you." 

" My friends, you have saved the expedition 
from fail are, and brought eternal honor on your 
names and country." 

Two other vessels, with owners and crews, were 
pressed into service by the arbitrary mandate of 
the sovereigns; and it is a striking instance of 
the despotic authority exercised over commerce 
in those times, that respectable individuals should 
thus 1)0 compelled to engage in what appeared to 
be a mad and desperate enterprise. 

But all difficulties had not yet been removed. 
Sir Garcia Estevan, the most malignant enemy of 
Columbus, came to Palos to hinder and delay the 
equipment. Nothing was done openly ; but, aided 
by Miguel, his hireling, tbe}^ covertly caused dif- 
ficulties to arise among the seamen who had been 
compelled to embark. Gomez Rascon and Cliris- 
toval Quintero, owners of the Pmto, one of the 
ships pressed into service, were made believe it 
was a mad, desperate enterprise, and exerted all 



152 COLUMBIA. 

their influence to defeat the voyage. The calkers 
employed on the vessel did their work in a care- 
less and imperfect manner, and, on being required 
to do it over again, absconded. Many seamen 
who in the first wave of enthusiasm had enlisted 
repented their hardihood, and sought to retract; 
others deserted and concealed themselves in the 
interior ; and thus, from the time of Sir Garcia's 
appearance, difficulty after difficulty arose. None, 
of course, could be traced to him. Everything 
had to be effected by the most harsh and arbitrary 
measures, and in defiance of organized prejudice. 

The influence and example of the Pinzons had 
a great effect in allaying this opposition, and in- 
ducing many of their friends and relatives to 
embark. They represented that the enterprise 
was one which would shed glory throughout all 
time, and that every man who engaged in it would 
immortalize his name. It is quite certain that the 
assistance of the Pinzons was very important, if 
not indispensable, in fitting out and launching 
the expedition, and, despite Garcia Estevan and 
his hirelings, the fitting out went steadily on. 

The ships in which Columbus was to embark 
were vessels that no mariner of the j^resent day 
would think of engaging in such a voyage. The 
largest, a ship of no considerable burden, was 
commanded by Columbus as admiral, who gave it 
the name of Santa Maria, out of respect for the 



SEEKING AN UNKNOWN WORLD. I53 

Blessed Virgin, whom he honored with singular 
devotion. Of the second, called the Pinta^ Martin 
Alonzo Pinzon was captain, and his brother Fran- 
cis pilot. The third, named the Nina., had lateen- 
sails, open deck, and was nnder command of Vin- 
cent Yanez Pinzon. These two were light ves- 
sels, hardly superior in burden or force to large 
boats. 

There were three other pilots — Sancho Ruiz, 
Alonzo Nino, and Bartolomeo Roldan. Roderigo 
Sanchez, of Segovia, was inspector-general of the 
armament, and Diego de Arana, a native of Cor- 
dova, chief alquazil. Roderigo de Escobar went 
as royal notary — an oflficer always sent in the 
armaments of the crown, to take official notes of 
the transactions. A physician, a surgeon, together 
with various private adventurers, several servants, 
and ninety mariners — making, in all, one hundred 
and twenty persons, including Columbus and Her- 
nando — constituted the number engaged in the 
expedition. 

At the beginning of August every difficulty was 
vanquished, and the vessels were ready for sea. 
It had been a busy day in the little town of Palos. 
All had been bustle, confusion, and excitement. 
At dusk Miguel stole away from the village to the 
ruins of an ancient castle, half a league from the 
village. He found a knight in armor awaiting 
him. It was Sir Garcia; he was standing by his 



154 COLUMBIA. 

steed, one arm impatiently thrown across the ani- 
mal's neck, 

" What news, Miguel ? " he asked, as the sailor 
came up. 

"The expedition is ready to sail." 

*' Can we prevent it? " 

"No, Sir Garcia." 

"In which ship goes the lad?" 

"With the admiral." 

" Miguel, you must go in the same ship, and see 
tliat tte expedition proves a failure, or, at least, 
that the lad returns not alive." 

"Trust me to do your bidding, Sir Garcia." 

The knight then proceeded to give his hireling 
final orders ; and history has recorded, in letters 
that will never fade, how faithfully those instruc- 
tions were carried out. 

It was Thursday, August 2, 1492. The sun 
was high in the sky, though it had not passed 
the meridian. On the morrow the fleet was to sail, 
and Granddame Doria and Christina had not come. 

Hernando with great anxiety watched the gray, 
dust-strewn road, winding about among the hills 
beyond the convent; but it was evening before 
he saw two females, mounted on donkeys, coming 
toward Palos. Recognizing them as the persons 
he was most anxious to see, he flew to meet them, 
and his joy was not less than Christina's. 

" Come with me ; we have a house prepared for 



SEEKING AN UNKNOWN WORLD. I55 

you, where you can rest until the departure of 
the vessels," he said, after the first raptures of 
meeting had subsided. 

A sadness was strangely mingled with their joy. 
Late at night Columbus found the boy and girl 
standing on the beach, gazing off at the three ves- 
sels lying in the harbor all ready to sail. He 
was about to speak to them, but, finding both in 
tears, regarded their mournful silence as too 
sacred to be broken. 

The squadron being ready to put to sea, Colum- 
bus, impressed with the solemnity of his under- 
taking, confessed himself to the friar Juan Perez, 
and partook of the sacrament of the communion. 
His example was followed by his ofiicers and 
most of the crew, and they entered upon their 
enterprise full of awe, and with the most devout 
and affecting ceremonial, committing themselves 
to the special guidance and protection of Heaven. 

Friday, the third day of August, A.D. 1492, the 
day set for sailing, arrived. Morning dawned 
bright and clear, with the exception of a few 
amber clouds, which faded away beneath the 
power of the sun. The ocean which our adven- 
turers were to explore was calm and mild as the 
summer sky. Long before dawn of day the 
town had been awake, and everybody was astir. 
Tlie old, the sick, lame, and blind, those who but 
seldom crept from their houses, were early astir. 



15C COLUMBIA. 

A deep gloom overspread the village, for almost 
everybody had some relative or friend aboard the 
squadron. 

The sailors had been taken aboard the day 
before, but Hernando, Columbus, and a few others 
remained to bid a last farewell. Many an eye 
grew dim, and many a breast heaved with sobs, as 
the morning dawned. None wept louder than did 
Christina and the granddame. Both embraced 
Hernando and bade hi to farewell, perhaps forever. 
He bore up heroically, smiled, and gave utterance 
to words of encouragement which grown men 
and battle-scarred veterans could not speak. 

A mailed and armed knight, with visor down, 
sat on his horse watching the lad. He was Sir 
Garcia, and his frame seemed to quiver with 
hate. 

Columbus took his place in the bow of the 
boat, and the lad standing in the stern smiled 
bravely, and waved his cap at the loved ones on 
shore, as the boat pulled away. 

"Farewell, Christina; granddame, farewell. 
Weej) not for me, for I will soon return and bring 
back my father." 

"So the fool has really set out to find his 
father," ejaculated the knight. 

The boat reached the side of the Santa Maria., 
and was hoisted on board. Then anchors were 
hoisted, sails unfurled, and deep-throated cannon 



SEEKING AN UNKNOWN WORLD. 157 

boomed forth tlie awful news that the squadron 
had departed to discover an unknown world. 

" Oh, he is gone, he is gone ! " shrieked Chris- 
tina, and fell fainting in the arms of the weeping 
granddame. 

When she recovered consciousness, the squad- 
ron was out of sight, and she wrung her hands, 
and sobbed in wild despair, for hours refusing to 
be comforted. 

Columbus set sail from the bar of Saltes, a 
small island formed b}^ the arms of the Odiel, in 
front of the town of Huelva ; steering in a south- 
westerly direction for the Canary Islands, whence 
it was his intention to strike due west. As a 
guide by which to sail, he had made a map that 
was an improvement over the one sent him by 
Paulo Toscanelli. 

The exultation of Columbus never exhibited 
itself above the calm, dignified demeanor of the 
admiral, 'until the little fleet was under way, and 
the shore began to fade from view. After eighteen 
years of hard labor, after enduring disappoint- 
ment, and scoffs, and indignation beyond the 
endurance of ordinary mortals, it is no wonder 
that he should now exhibit some signs of triumph. 
He paced the quarter-deck as the Santa Maria 
bounded over the waters, and his face, usually so 
grave and solemn, was wreathed in smiles. Her- 
nando had borne up well until the little seaport 



158 COLUMBIA. 

town faded from sight, and tlien, covering his face 
with his hands, he gave way to a flood of tears. 

" Cheer up, my lad, be brave. We have tri- 
umphed. Our expedition cannot now fail." 

" 'Tis not for dread of danger before, but regret 
for those left behind, that causes these tears to 
flow," he answered. 

His was not the only damp cheek on that deck. 
Many a hardy sailor's eye grew dim, and many 
bearded faces wet with tears, as the coast of Spain 
faded from view. 

" Oh, land of our fathers, beautiful home of 
our wives and children, shall we never see thee 
more?" they cried, pressing to the ship's stern, 
and stretching their hands toward the fast-fading 
shore. This was only the beginning of a period 
of dread and discontent, which was all along 
fomented by the spy Miguel, who never lost an 
opportunity to breed discord among his fellow- 
sailors. 

The exultation of Columbus was soon checked 
by his want of confidence in the resolution and 
perseverance of his crews. As long as he re- 
mained within reach of Europe, there was no 
security that, in a moment of repentance and 
alarm, they might not renounce the prosecution 
of the voyage, and insist on a return. 

Symptoms soon appeared to warrant his appre- 
hensions. Miguel was constantly whispering with 



SEEKING AN UNKNOWN WORLD. 159 

the men, and the ominous shaking of heads and 
nerv^ous anxiety betrayed in the features of each 
bore evidence that trouble was brewing. 

But Columbus was equal to the emergency. 
Eeassuming his calm and dignified demeanor, he 
pretended to have no apprehension, and continued 
giving orders as if he had nothing to fear. At 
night he studied the stars, and the day he spent 
on his log-book and astrolabe, making calculations 
and estimates. 

On the third day out Columbus was in his cabin 
thus engaged, when the door opened and Her- 
nando, looking in, cried : 

"Lord admiral, the Pinta is making signs of 
distress." 

With his face expressing anxiety he hastened 
on deck, and, seizing a glass, glanced at the vessel. 

"She is indeed in distress," the admiral re- 
marked. " Her rudder is broken and unhung. 
This has been done through the contrivance of 
Gomez Rascon and Christoval Quintero, to disable 
their vessel and cause her to be left behind." 

One man on whose ears those words fell could 
easily have solved the mystery. His evil black 
eyes sparkled with devilish satisfaction, and he 
mumbled to himself : 

" The admiral guesses but too well. Sir Garcia 
and the owners of the Pinta pay me liberally, and 
I never fail to do my work right." 



160 COLUMBIA. 

Columbus was much disturbed at this occur- 
rence. The wind was blowing strongly at the 
time, so that he could not render assistance with- 
out endangering his own vessel. But the captain 
of the Pinia secured the rudder by cords, so as to 
gain a temporary control over it. The control 
was only temporary, however, for next day tiie 
fastenings gave way, and the other ships were 
forced to shorten sail until the rudder could be 
secured. 

Not only was the rudder broken, but the Pinta 
had sprung a leak, and the admiral determined to 
put into the Canary Islands and seek some vessel 
to replace the damaged one. On the morning of 
the 9th of August, six days after leaving the port 
of Palos, they reached the Canaries. 

As no suitable vessel could be found to take 
the place of the Pinta, a new rudder was made for 
her, and she was otherwise repaired to make her 
seaworthy for such a long and mysterious voyage. 
The lateen sails of the Nlfia were altered into 
square sails, that she might work more steadily 
and securely, and be able to keep company with 
the other vessels. All of this required three 
weeks' time. One day as they lay off the coast of 
one of the Canaries, Hertiando was amazed and 
alarmed at beholding the lofty peak of Teneriffe 
sending forth volumes of jQarae and smoke. 

" Look, look ! " cried Miguel to a party of sail- 



SEEKING AN UNKNOWN WORLD. 101 

ors on deck. " Behold, the very bowels of the 
earth are aflame. We will find the fires grow more 
frequent as we advance, nntil we will be consumed 
in a sea of flame. That is an omen sent by Heaven 
to warn us not to proceed." Being ready to take 
alarm at any extraordinary phenomena and con- 
strue it into a disastrous portent, the sailors were 
willing to believe him, and already on the eve of 
a panic, when Hernando hastened to the admiral 
with the alarming intelligence. Columbus took 
great pains to dispel their apprehensions, explain- 
ing the natural causes of those volcanic fires, and 
verifying his explanations by citing Mount Etna 
and other well-known volcanoes. 

One day while they were lying at the island of 
Gomera, taking in wood and provisions, a vessel 
arrived from Ferro, the captain of which was a 
distant relative of the Pinzons, and, learning the 
object of the expedition, he hastened to Mar- 
tin Alonzo Pinzon's vessel, where after a short 
consultation they went on board the admiral's 
ship. 

" We have news, admiral, that may be alarm- 
ing," said Captain Pinzon. 

" What is the news ? " 

" The captain, whose word may be taken as 
true, reports three armed Portuguese caravels 
hovering off the island of Ferro, evidently with the 
intention of capturing you." 
11 



162 COLUMBIA. 

" I have suspected some such hostile strategy 
on the part of the king of Portugal, in revenge for 
having engaged in the service of Spain," Columbus 
answered. 

" What will you do ? " asked Pinzoru 

" Is the Pinta seaworthv ? " 

" She is, admiral." 

" Get ready to sail at once." 

'' I will be ready in an hour." 

" Can you convey your order to your brother? " 

"lean." 

" Do so ; we will sail at daylight." 

At dawn Columbus had a signal-light hoisted at 
the mast-head of the Santa Maria, and the vessels 
weighed anchor. They were scarce clear of the 
harbor, and the gray twilight still overspread the 
waters, when a vessel, suddenly rounding a point, 
came within bow-shot of the Santa Maria. 

" Admiral ! the Portuguese ! " cried Hernando, 
who stood on the poop-deck. 

The experienced eye of Columbus soon discov- 
ered the boy's mistake. 

" It's a Moorish caravel," the admiral answered. 
The Moor came along until she was near enough 
to see her deck, and, as it grew lighter every mo- 
ment, they even made out the features of the dark- 
skinned sailors. 

" Hernando Estevan," cried a voice from the 
approaching vessel. " Son of the Christian slave, 



SEEKING AN UNKNOWN WORLD. 163 

whither are jou bound? Be where it may, take 
the curse of the Moor with you." 

The speaker was a tall, powerful fellow, whose 
left ear had been cut away close to his head. It 
was the lad's old enemy, Abdallah Ahmed. 

Before Hernando could recover sufficiently to 
reply, the Moorish caravel swept by, and the little 
fleet went bounding away before a stiff breeze. 
Land quickly faded from sight, and they were far, 
far out on an unknown sea, seeking an unknown 
world. 



CHAPTEE X. 



THE MUTINY. 



Columbus felt safe when land finally disap- 
peared, and they were speeding farther and far- 
ther away into the unknown wilderness of water. 
" They cannot desert now ; we must go on." 

The wind was fair, and the vessels made good 
speed. The iVma, now that lier sails were squixred, 
managed to keep pace with the others. Many of 
the crews of the vessels had borne up well, but on 
losing sight of the last trace of land, and knowing 
that they were entering an unknown and unex- 
plored ocean, their hearts failed them. On the 
second day out Columbus found a strong sailor in 
tears. 

" How is this, a man weeping ? Shame ! It is 
for women and children to shed tears," he said, 
halting at the sailor's side, 

" Never before have men been separated from 
the world as we are," answered the sailor. " Behind 
us is everything that heart holds dear — country, 
family, friends, life itself; before us are mystery, 
chaos, and death." 

" Oh, no, my brave man ! Don't despair — it's 
womanish. We have much before us," said Co- 



THE MUTINY. 165 

lurabus, in a tone intended to be cheerful. " You 
will live to return borne and tell tliose friends of 
adventures of "which tbey never dreamed." 

" No, no, we will never see our homes again," 
said another. 

It became necessary for the admiral to inspire 
tbem with hope and confidence, or the result 
might even yet be serious. .A number of the 
despairing ones had gathered about, and he ad- 
dressed them thus: 

"Why give way to fears and make cowards of 
yourselves, when so much is in store for you. A 
lofty ambition should fill you with joy at our 
glorious anticipations. I am taking you to mag- 
nificent countries; to islands in the Indian seas 
teeming with gold and precious stones ; the regions 
of Mangi and Cathay, with their cities of univer- 
sal wealth and splendoi'. Cheer up, and I will 
give you lauds and gold in abundance. Ricbes 
in gold, jewels, and fine raiment, such as kings 
might envy, sball be yours. Why will you de- 
spair ? " 

Columbus made not these promises as mere 
deceptions ; he certainly believed he should real- 
ize them all. 

The admiral issued orders to the other vessels 
that, in case they should become separated, they 
were to keep right on due westward ; but that, 
after sailing seven hundred leagues, they should 



166 - COLUMBIA. 

lay by from midnight until daylight, as at about 
that distance he expected to iind land. 

It seems remarkable that Columbus should take 
one so young as Hernando entirely in his confi- 
dence, but so long had be been with the lad, and 
young as he was found his judgment good, that 
he trusted him even before the Pinzons in some 
matters. Hernando was quick of perception and 
seemed to read the thoughts of the sailors. On 
discovering that their fears seemed to increase 
with the distance from Spain, he communicated 
the fact to the admiral. 

"If there was only some way to deceive them," 
said Hernando. ''If we could onlv make them 
believe that we were not going so far, nor fast, as 
we are, it might allay their apprehensions." 

With a smile Columbus answered : 

" It has been many years since I learned a les- 
son that may be of great advantage to me now." 

"What was it, admiral? " 

" I have no reason to keep a secret from you, 
for I know you have confidence in me." 

"I have the utmost." 

" This story may prove to you that deception, 
when necessary, is excusable." 

"I believe it is, admiral." 

" It happened to me once, that King Reiner — 
whom God has taken to himself — sent me to Tunis 
to capture the galley Fernandina^ and when I ar- 



THE MUTINY. 1^7 

rived off the island of St. Pedro in Sardinia I was 
informed there were two ships and a carrack with 
the galley ; by which intelligence my crew were 
so troubled that they determined to proceed no 
farther, but to return to Marseilles for another 
vessel and more people. As I could not by any 
means compel them, I apparently assented to 
their wishes, altering the point of the compass and 
spreading all sail. It was then evening, and next 
morning we were within the Cape of Carthagenia, 
while all were firmly of opinion that they were 
sailing toward Marseilles," 

" How can that lesson help us now, admiral ? " 

" It is never wise for the commander of a ship 
to let the crew know all, and sometimes it may be 
necessary to deceive them." 

" Are you now deceiving them ? " 

" I am." 

"How?" 

"I knew their anxiety and terror were increas- 
ing in proportion to their distance from their 
native land, and I keep two reckonings." 

"Two?" 

" Yes, two : one correct, which no one but my- 
self sees, in which the true course of the ship is 
noted; in the other, which is open to general in- 
spection, a number of leagues is daily subtracted 
from the sailing of the ship, so they are in igno- 
rance of our real distance." 



168 COLUMBIA. 

For a moment the lad bowed his head in thought 
and then asked : 
• "Is that right?" 

" What is necessary is right. A stratagem to 
overcome ignorance and further the eads of God 
is right." 

On the eleventh day of September, when about 
one hundred and fifty leagues west of Ferro, the 
lookout called the attention of Columbus to some- 
thing floating on the water. 

" What is it," asked the admiral. 

"A mast," Hernando answered. The boy was 
in the forecastle, and was one of the first to make 
the discovery. 

Columbus signalled the other vessels to lay to, 
and, lowering a boat, Hernando with six others 
pulled to the piece of floating mast and brought 
it on shipboard. From its size it evidently had 
belonged to a vessel of about one hundred and 
twenty tons burden, and it had lain in the water 
until it was almost rotted. The cYews of the ex- 
ploring ships, alive to everything that could ex- 
cite hopes or fears, looked with rueful cj-es upon 
this wreck of some unfortunate voyager, drift- 
ing ominously at the entrance of those unknown 
seas. 

" Don't allow this to alarm you," said Columbus 
to the crews, when he saw that a panic was liable 
to spread among them. "This broken mast has 



TEE MUTINY. 169 

no doubt been in the water for years, and probably 
has floated from one of our ports." By encour- 
aging and threatening them, lie allayed to a small 
degree their dread of the unknown sea. 

Hernando, boy as he was, studied the admiral. 
He was continually in his confidence, knew many 
of his secrets, and soon became aware of the fact 
that the admiral was becoming more perplexed 
and more puzzled the farther they advanced into 
this unknown region. The very heavens were 
changing. The constellations of the East were 
disappearing and strangers taking their places. 

On the evening of September the 13th, Her- 
nando chanced to go into the admiral's cabin. 
They had advanced fifty leagues farther into the 
unknown world, and Hernando had almost begun 
to doubt that the admiral was correct in his cal- 
culations. He found the navigator seated at a 
table with a chart and compass before him. 
■ Hernando was privileged to enter the admiral's 
cabin at all hours. He spoke on entering, but, 
receiving no answer, gently closed the door, and 
took a step toward the admiral, so as to get a 
glimpse of his face. And oh, what a face! Never 
had he seen anything like it. The pallor of death 
had overspread it, the lips were parted as if gasp- 
ing for breath, the eyes seemed starting from their 
sockets, and he almost fancied he could hear the 
explorer's heart beating v/ithin its prison walls. 



170 COLUMBIA. 

What was the meaning of all this? Hernando 
knew that some critical point had been gained. 
He barred the door, so as to prevent intrusion, 
and determined to know the worst. 

"Admiral, admiral, what has happened?" 

"See, it varies," cried Columbus, starting to 
his feet, and clutching the lad's arm with his left 
hand, at the same time pointing to the compass 
with his right. " It varies ; it no longer points to 
the north." 

For a moment the lad stood in speechless amaze- 
ment. The youth was ignorant of the art of nav- 
igation, but the face of the man on whose knowl- 
edge and judgment he had staked his life told 
him that something was wrong. 

" What made it wrong? " Hernando asked. 

For a moment Columbus did not answer. Then, 
overcoming his astonishment, he said: 

" It seems as if the very laws of nature are be- 
coming reversed as we advance, and that we are 
entering another world, subjected to unknown in- 
fluences." 

" Maybe the compass is broken." 

" No, they are all the same. I have thought for 
several days they were varying. As we advance, 
they no longer point to the north, but the north- 
west. Day by day for three days I have studied 
this wonderful phenomenon, something the world 
has never known." 




"SKK, IT VAKIKS!" ( Hli:l) (( IMM ItlS. STAHTINC! TO MIS FEET. 



TUE MUTINY. 171 

The bo J was greatly frightened, and turning to 
Columbus, asked : 

"What are you going to do ; go back and leave 
my poor father in this unknown world?" 

" Would you go back ? " 

After a short hesitation, he answered : 

"No ; not if every law of nature was reversed." 

"Noble lad, neither would I. The change of 
the compass is only a new discovery in science, 
and can be harmonized with navigation, though 
it will cause us no little trouble when our pilots 
discover it. I must find some excuse for the 
variation of the needle." 

" Can it be kept a secret? " 

"Impossible. They have the sailing of the 
ship, and will soon know it." 

At this moment a form was crouching at the 
door of the cabin, a pair of dark, piercing eyes 
were glittering with fiendish satisfaction, and 
under his breath Miguel the spy hissed : 

"Something goes wrong. What is it? I wish 
I could but catch the words." 

The quick ear of Columbus heard a noise there, 
and flinging the door open, saw the crouching spy. 

"Dog of an interloper, take that, and that, and 
that," cried Columbus, belaboring him with his 
staff, until the villain roared out with pain, and 
sought safety in the forward part of the ship. 

Columbus was not mistaken in regard to the 



172 COLUMBIA. 

pilots. They were qaick to perceive the variation, 
and three days later three of them called on the 
commodore. Sancho Ruiz was spokesman. 

" Lord admiral," he said, " we have made a 
very wonderful if not alarming discovery." 

" What is it," asked Columbus, feigning indif- 
ference more than ignorance. 

" The laws of nature are changing as we enter 
another world, and come under unknown influ- 
ences." 

"Make your meaning more plain, Ruiz." 

" The compass is about to lose its power, and 
without it we have no guide in the vast, trackless 
ocean. It no longer points directly north, but is 
varying northwest." 

Columbus taxed his ingenuity as well as science 
to the utmost for reasons to allay their terror. 
He allowed no outward demonstration to indicate 
that he was not complete master of the situation. 
In a matter-of-fact way he answered : 

" What you say is true, Senor Ruiz, but if you 
- will examine the matter closely it is very simple. 
The direction of the needle is not to the polar 
star, but to some fixed and invisible point. 
These variations which we have discovered are 
not caused by any fallacy in the compass, but by 
the movement of the north star itself, which, like 
other heavenly bodies, has changed its revolutions, 
and every day describes a circle round the pole." 



THE MUTINY. 173 

The pilots entertained an excellent opinion of 
Columbus as a profound astronomer, and his 
theory was accepted as correct. On next day, 
the 14th of September, Hernando was standing on 
the deck of the Santa Maria^ when he suddenlj^ 
saw two large birds, and running aft to Colum- 
bus, he called : 

" Admiral, here is a good omen. See the birds 
flying." 

" Birds, a harbinger of land, where are they ? " 
cried Columbus, going forward. 

"There," answered several sailors, pointing to 
the birds within bow-shot of the vessel's prow. 

"A heron and a Kabo de Junco," cried Colum- 
bus. " These are fowls which never venture far 
away from land. Our voyage will soon be over." 

All the afternoon the two birds hovered about 
the ships, but disappeared at dark. Those tropical 
nights were delightfully cool, but dark. The sky 
was a stranger to them, and they seemed gliding 
on into a vast unknown world of water. 

" Great God, look ! " cried some one from the 
Santa Maria. 

" Saints preserve us ! " groaned scores of voices. 

The whole sky was lit with a lurid glare. A 
great flame of fire seemed to fall from tb.e dark 
heavens into the sea, about four or five leagues 
distant. 

These meteors, common in warm climates, and 



174 COLUMBIA. 

especially in the tropics, are always observed in 
the serene azure sky, falling as it were from the 
heavens, but never beneath a cloud. In the trans- 
parent atmosphere of one of those beautiful nights, 
where every star shines with the purest lustre, 
they often leave a luminous train behind, which 
lasts twelve or fifteen seconds, and might easily be 
mistaken for a flame. The boldest sailors were 
on their knees, believing they were entering a 
sea of fire, and that the ships would soon be con- 
sumed. Again was Columbus put to his best to 
explain all he knew of meteors, and it took some 
time to restore confidence to his men, but he par- 
tially succeeded. 

With favorable winds and occasional showers, 
they had made considerable progress, though, ac- 
cording to the secret plan of Columbus, he man- 
aged to suppress several leagues in the daily 
reckoning left open to the crew. 

Arriving within the influence of the trade 
winds, they were wafted speedily but gently over 
a ti-anquil sea, so much so, that for several days 
they did not shift a sail. All were amazed and 
delighted with the bland and temperate serenity 
of the weather, which was soft and refreshing, 
without being too hot or too cool. The entire 
day was like an Andalusian April morn, and they 
wanted but the song of the nightingale to complete 
the illusion. 



THE MUTINY. 175 

They now came to a part of the sea where large 
patches of herbs were found drifting from tlie 
west, which increased in abundance as thej ad- 
vanced. Some were such as grow about rocks, 
and others such as are produced in fresh water 
streams. While some were yellow and withered, 
many were green and fresh as if they had just 
been washed from land. One day, a white trop- 
ical bird, such as never sleeps on the sea, was 
discovered; tunny fish were also seen playing 
about the vessels. 

Filled with joy and hope, Columbus gathered 
the crew of his vessel in the forecastle, and thus 
addressed them : 

"My brave men, ye need no longer despair, for 
we are, without doubt, nearing land. There is 
an account given by Aristotle of certain ships 
of Cadiz, which, coasting the shores outside the 
straits of Gibraltar, were driven westward by an 
impetuous east wind, until they reached a part of 
the ocean covered with weeds, resembling sunken 
islands, and in the waters they found many tunny 
fish, as we see them. All these indicate that we 
are certainly not far from land." 

Next day two boobies, birds which seldom fly 
more than twenty leagues from land, were discov- 
ered, and this further added to their hopes and 
encouragement. 

The weeds continued to increase, and Miguel, 



176 COLUMBIA. 

ever watchful for an opportunity to breed discon- 
tent among the sailors, suggested that the weeds 
might continue to grow thicker on the surface of 
the water, until it would be impossible for the 
ships to force their way through. The wind was 
gentle at all times, and^for hours it would be a 
perfect calm. 

" You have all heard how ships have been frozen 
up in the northern seas, and unable to move," 
argued Miguel to a party of willing listeners. 
"That will be our fate. The wind is constantly 
falling off, and we will soon be unable to move." 

Hernando, who had become a self-constituted 
spy on the mutineer, hastened to Columbus to 
report what he was doing. The admiral listened 
with an attentive ear, and, when the lad had fin- 
ished, said, in his grave, solemn manner: 

"The fellow is mischievous, Hernando; watch 
him, and I will go at once and pacify the crew." 

When Columbus reached the deck, he found 
terror and desj^eration about to seize the sailors. 

" Why are you alarmed ? " he asked. " These 
weeds and this calmness are, beyond a doubt, 
caused by our near approach to land." 

Notwithstanding the assurances of the admiral, 
the crews were not satisfied, and the mischievous 
Miguel was constantly secretly fomenting discon- 
tent. The more Columbus argued, the more bois- 
terous became the murmurs of his crew, until, on 



THE MUTINY. 177 

Simdaj, the 26tli of September, there came on a 
heavy swell of the sea, unaccompanied by wind — 
a phenomenon which often occurs in the broad 
ocean — being either the expiring undulations of 
some past gale or the movements given the sea by 
some distant current of wind. It was nevertheless 
regarded with astonishment by the mariners, and 
for a short time dispelled their imaginary terrors, 
occasioned by the calm. 

From this time on, however, the situation be- 
came daily more critical. The favorable signs, 
which increased the admiral's confidence in the 
belief that they were nearing land, were derided by 
Miguel and those bad, bold spirits whom he had 
gathered about him, so that Columbus began to 
fear they would rebel and compel him to turn back. 

It was night — one of those strange, still nights, 
such as no one aboard the squadron had ever seen 
before. The sky was full of strangers, and the 
sea of weeds and grass. The admiral was alone 
in his cabin, filled with anxiety, when Hernando 
entered. 

" I am glad you have come, Hernando, for we 
liave reached a crisis," said Columbus. 

" What do you mean, admiral ? " 

" All day long I have watched them, gathered 
about in little knots and groups ; they have fed 
each other's discontents, until the storm is ready 
to break." 
13 



178 COLUMBIA. 

Tlie admiral was in armor, and his naked sword 
lay on the table at his side. The boy regarded 
these signs as ominous, and asked : 

'■ What would you have me do ? " 

" You are a brave lad, and I can trust you. Go, 
arm yourself, and be ready for any emergency. 
Then, putting on your cloak so as to conceal your 
armor, go forth on deck, learn what they are 
doing, get their plans, and return." 

"I will." 

The lad bowed and retired. 

" Oh, if my brother, and a few others whom I 
could trust as I do that boy, were only on board, 
I should feel safe. Though some of the crew 
seem faithful, at times I mistrust all." 

While the admiral was thus moodily and almost 
despairingly meditating on his present perilous 
condition and the mutinous disposition of the crew, 
there suddenly came a rap on the door of his cabin. 

*' Come in," he answered, laying his hand on his 
sword. 

The door opened, and Ruiz the pilot, followed 
by half a dozen, entered. 

"Lord admiral," said Ruiz, "the crew are about 
to mutiny, being determined to make us turn back." 

" We will not do it," cried Columbus, clutching 
his naked sword. " No, if these decks swim with 
blood, we will prosecute our voyage to the end." 

In the meanwhile the little spy was cautiously 



THE MUTINY. 179 

creeping along the dark deck to where the crew 
were gathered in a knot at the forecastle, with 
Miguel haranguing them. Slowly and cautiously, 
on bended knees, without noise, and with all the 
motions of a creeping cat, glided Hernando nearer 
to where the mutineers were assembled. Reach- 
ing a gun-carriage unobserved, he crouched down 
in the darkness behind it, and waited, watched, 
and listened. 

Unaware of his presence, Miguel continued to 
breed dissension among the mutineers. With a 
zeal and eloquence worthy of a better cause, the 
mutineer said : 

"This man is a desperado, bent in his mad 
fantasy upon doing something extravagant to 
render himself notorious. What are our suffer- 
ings and dangers to one content to lose his own 
life for the chance of fame and distinction? 
What obligations bind us to continue with him ? 
And when, pray, will the terms of our contract 
be fulfilled? We have already penetrated un- 
known seas untraversed by a sail, far beyond 
where man has ever before ventured. You have 
already won names for courage and hardihood in 
undertaking such an enterprise and persisting in 
it so far, and how much farther are we to go 
in quest of merely conjectured land ? Are we 
to sail until we perish, or until return becomes 
impossible? If we do, we will be the authors of 



180 COLUMBIA. 

oar own destruction. If we consult our safety 
and turn back before it is too late, who can blame 
us? Complaints made by Columbus will have no 
weight, for he is a foreigner without friends or 
influence, and his schemes have been condemned 
bj the most learned men in Spain. He has no 
party to uphold him, and a host of opponents 
who would rejoice at his failure. If 3'ou fear his 
complaints, we might seize him and cast him into 
the sea, giving out that he had fallen overboard 
while studying the stars with his instruments " 

"Seize him," interrupted one. 

" Yes, seize the admiral and cast him over- 
board," cried another. 

" Let us strike at once." 

"At once, at once," and a dozen daggers and 
swords flashed in the starliglit. The mutineers 
rose up and began moving toward the cabin. 

Swift as a flash the lad glided along the deck 
of the vessel and darted through the cabin door, 
which he found slightly open. 

There stood the admiral, sword in hand, the 
pilot, and five others, all with weapons drawn. 

"Lord admiral, they are coming — the muti- 
neers are coming," cried the lad, his eyes flashing 
with excitement. 

" Come, we will go and meet them on deck," 
roared Columbus, and with drawn sword he led his 
handful of faithful followers to meet the mutineers. 



CHAPTER XT. 

LIGHTS ALONG THE SHOEE. 

Instead of effecting a complete surprise, as bad 
been intended, the mutineers were themselves sur- 
prised. They had expected to find the admiral 
alone in the cabin ; instead, he met them sword in 
hand on the quarter-deck, followed by half a 
dozen brave men, well armed. The ship's lan- 
terns were deceitful and did not reveal the real 
number of the admiral's followers. 

" There they are, admiral," cried the lad, point- 
ing out the mutineers with his sword. 

"Knaves, villains," roared the admiral, and 
with terrible yells he and his faithful followers 
fell on them and began laying about with their 
swords. Steel clashed against steel, and showers 
of sparks covered the deck. 

The mutineers, dismayed at having their secret 
plans discovered, made scarcely any resistance; 
but, throwing down their weapons, all, save Mi- 
guel, fled to the forward part of the ship, where 
they dropped on their knees, implored mercy, and 
swore future obedience to the admiral. Miguel 
would have followed their inglorious example had 
not the admiral disarmed and held him fast. 



182 COLUMBIA. 

" Oh, pray, my lord, let me go! '' lie cried, strug- 
gling desperately to break away. 

" Cease, villain, cease your struggling, or I shall 
be sorely temiDted to run you through," cried 
Columbus. 

The trembling wretch began to implore the 
admiral to spare his life. 

" Have mercy — oh, have mercy I " he groaned. 

*' Know you not the fate of traitors and muti- 
neers ? " 

*' Oh, pray, have mercy! " 

" Do you deserve it ? " 

" Mercy, mercy ! " 

"The law put your life in my power, and you 
have forfeited it." 

" Spare me — oh, spare me ! " 

Hernando was too tender-hearted not to be 
moved bv those pleadings and tears. 

"Spare him, I pray you, my lord," he began. 

" Do you ask that he be spared ? " 

" Surely he can do us no harm if he be kept con- 
fined in the hold and in chains." 

" I will keep him as a living example to all 
other traitors," Columbus answered. 

The admiral had a tender heart, but was pos- 
sessed of a sound judgment, and knew that in this 
case it was best to assume harshness. Fear was 
the iron hand which could control such incorri- 
gible characters as Miguel. Dragging the rauti- 



LIGHTS ALONG THE SHORE. Igg 

neer to his feet, he handed him over to the officers, 
and said : 

" Take him below, load him down with irons, 
and see that he communicates with no one. His 
fate shall be determined hereafter." 

There went up from the prisoner a groan. He 
knew full well that, according to maritime law, 
he had forfeited his life. 

Euiz and one or two more seized the culprit 
and dragged him from the deck. He begged 
and implored for life, but was unceremoniously 
dragged down into the hold of the ship and there 
made fast. Columbus put up his sword and 
walked boldly forward to where the remainder of 
his crew were gathered in the forecastle, trembling 
with dread apprehension at having aroused the 
ire of the admiral. 

" Oh, mercy, mercy ! " the most timid began. 

Having witnessed the capture of their ring- 
leader, they began to lose what little hope they 
had entertained of the success of the mutiny. 

" Mercy 1 " said the admiral, sternly. "Do you 
deserve mercy ? " 

" Mercy, mercy ! " 

"Down on your knees, all of you, and now 
swear to never again attempt mutinj^" 

All fell on their knees, and swore anew alle- 
giance to the admiral, who ordered them to return 
to their duties. 



184 COLUMBIA. 

"Bear in mind," he added quite sternly, as the 
mutineers began to disperse, " the first man who 
again makes an attempt at mutiny dies." 

Harshness was not natural with Columbus, and 
it was only with the most desperate he was harsh. 
He meted out to each such inducements as was 
necessary to stimulate him. Maintaining a serene 
and steady countenance, soothing some with gen- 
tle words, endeavoring to stimulate the pride and 
avarice of others, and openly menacing the refrac- 
tory with signal punishment should they do more 
to impede the voyage, he again became master of 
the situation. 

The lad, who had ever been faithful to the 
admiral, even at the imminent risk of losins: his 
life, was now more his confidential friend than 
ever. 

"Don't put the prisoner to death," he pleaded. 

" By law he has forfeited his life," Columbus 
answered. 

" Mercy is given even where life is forfeited." 

" Not when it jeopardizes other lives," contin- 
ued the admiral. "If I spare this man, as 3''ou 
would have me do, what assurance have I that 
he will not again incite the crew to mutiny ? " 

"His oath, my lord." 

" His oath is of no more strength than a rope 
of sand." 

" Can you try him ? " 



LIGHTS ALONG THE SHORE, 185 

"Try him? It would be criminal to now give 
that man his liberty. The morality and lives of 
the crew, as well as the success of our enterprise, 
depend on his being kept in chains." 

"But you won't put him to death? " 

"Neither he nor his late companions in the 
mutin}'- must think otherwise. You need rest; 
go to your bunk and take what sleep you can 
get." 

" Admiral, you are in need of rest yourself. 
You have scarce slept for weeks." 

" Nor will I sleep, save enough to preserve life 
and reason, until we have sighted the shores of 
this new world. Gret you to your berth, and dis- 
turb not your mind with thoughts of the wicked. 
They bring their own misery on themselves. 
Vice and woe go hand in hand." 

Next day the wind again became favorable, 
and they were enabled to resume their course 
directly westward. The breezes being light, and 
the sea calm, the vessels sailed so near to each 
other that Columbus and Martin Alonzo Pinzon 
stood on their own decks, and conversed with each 
other for hours. 

" Have you quelled the mutiny ? " asked Pinzon. 

" Effectually." 

" I don't see the chief of the mutineers hanging 
at your yard-arms." 

"I am menacing others with liis fate. If the 



186 COLUMBIA. 

crews continue faithful, I may even give them 
their liberties on reaching land," 

The idea of mercv to the mutineers was repug- 
nant to Pinzon, who believed in dealing out only 
the sternest justice. 

" Have you examined the chart I sent j^ou three 
days ago ? " asked Columbus. 

" I have." 

" Where do you think we are? " 

" According to the indications of the map, we 
must be in the neighborhood of the island of 
Cipango, and the other islands which you have 
delineated on the map." 

" I believe so, too, but it is possible that the ships 
may have been borne out of their track by the 
prevalent currents, or we may not have come so 
far as the pilots have reckoned." 

Columbus was shrewd enough to provide against 
possible disappointment. It might be fatal to his 
plans to set a time or distance too accurately for 
reaching the mystic shore, the whereabouts of 
which he was shrewdly guessing. 

"There may be a mistake," said Martin Alonzo 
Pinzon, " and yet I feel confident we are nearing 
land." 

" Everything goes to prove it. Have you 
finished with the chart ? " 

" For the time being." 

" Please toss it to the deck of my ship." 



LIGHTS ALONG THE SHORE. 187 

They were sailing so close together, that Martin 
Pinzon tied a cord to the chart, and flung it on 
board the Santa Maria. It fell at the feet of Co- 
lumbus, who picked it up and spread it out before 
him, Euiz was looking over his shoulder; Her- 
nando was at his side, and several sailors were 
near, all eager to know something of their locality. 

Suddenly a wild shout rang out from the deck 
of the Pint a. 

"What means that? "' cried Columbus. 

"See, see!" shouted Hernando, pointing to 
Martin Alonzo Pinzon, who was standing on the 
high poop-deck at the stern of his vessel, looking 
off to the southwest. 

" Land, land ! " cried Pinzon, at the top of his 
voice. " I claim my reward, I claim the pension 
for being the first to discover land." 

The eyes of Columbus followed the direction 
indicated by Pinzon's finger, and he saw, about 
twenty-five leagues away, what indeed had the 
appearance of land. The admiral threw himself 
on his knees and returned thanks to God, all his 
crew following his exam'ple, and the wildest rejoic- 
ing followed. On board the Pinta, a scene of 
equal excitement and a ceremony fully as impres- 
sive was going on. Martin Alonzo repeated the 
Gloria in excehis, in which he was joined by the 
crews of all three vessels. 

The seamen now mounted to the masthead or 



188 COLUMBIA. 

climbed about the rigging, straining their eyes in 
the direction pointed out. The conviction of land 
in that quarter became so general, and the joy of 
the people so ungovernable, that Columbus found 
it necessary to vary from his usual course, and 
stand all night to the southwest. The morning 
light, however, put an end to all their hopes, as to 
a dream. The fancied land proved to be nothing 
but an evening cloud, which vanished during the 
night. With dejected hearts they once more re- 
sumed their western course, from which Columbus 
would never have varied but in compliance with 
the clamorous wishes of his crew. 

" I will vary no more," he said. " We have lost 
several hours following a chimera; henceforth we 
shall steer by our original course." 

For several days they continued on with the 
same propitious breeze, tranquil sea, and mild, 
delightful weather. The water was so calm that 
the sailors amused themselves with swimming 
about the vessel. Dolphins began to abound, and 
flying fish, darting into the air, fell upon the decks. 
The continued signs of land diverted the attention 
of the crews, and insensibly lured them onward. 

A reckoning was made on October the first, 
which, according to figures furnished the pilots, 
was five hundred and eighty -four leagues from the 
Canary Islands, but the true reckoning was seven 
hundred and seven. On the 2d of October, dis- 



LIGHTH ALONG THE SHORE. 189 

couraging signs were discovered, the weeds were 
seen floating from the east to the west, and on 
tlie third day no birds were to be seen. 

At noon-day, Martin Pinzon hailed the admiral's 
ship, and designated his desire to come on board 
for consultation. 

"Come on," Columbus answered, though he 
seemed to know what the proposed consultation 
portended, and from the start to treat it with dis- 
favor. 

When Pinzon was aboard the admiral's vessel, 
he said : 

" I fear, my lord admiral, we have passed be- 
tween islands, from one to the other of which the 
birds have been flying." 

" The indications would seem that we bad," 
Columbus answered. 

"Would it not be well to change our course, 
and steer farther south ? " 

" No ; our charts and maps all indicate that 
Cipango, Maguay, and St. Borodon lie west- 
ward." 

"The crews begin again to murmur." 

" I am sorry, as it will compel me to resort to a 
stricter discipline than I had intended. I have 
one of their number now in irons, and it may be 
necessary to place more there, or even hang a few, 
rather than ruin the expedition." 

Next day there was a decided change, and 



190 COLUMBIA. 

everybody began once more to hope. They were 
visited by sucli flights of birds, and the various 
indications of land became so numerous, that from 
a state of despondency they passed to one of con- 
fident expectation. The sailors, eager to obtain the 
promised prize, were continually giving the cry of 
land on the least appearance of anything resem- 
bling an island. 

Kealizing the demoralizing effects of raising 
false hopes, Columbus declared that should any 
one give such notice, and land not be discovered 
within three days afterward, he should henceforth 
forfeit all claim to the reward. 

On the morning of the 6th of October, Martin 
Alonzo Pinzon again came on board, and notified 
Columbus that he was losing confidence in their 
present course, and tried to urge the admiral to 
change it. But this Columbus refused to do, and 
issued an order, that, should the ships become 
separated, each was to stand due west, and endeavor 
as soon as possible to join the company again. 
He also directed that the vessels should keep 
near him at sunrise and sunset, as at those periods 
the atmosphere was most favorable to the discov- 
ery of distant land. 

On the 7th of October, several of the admiral's 
crew thought they beheld land to westward, but 
none ventured to proclaim it, for fear of losing the 
reward. 



LIGHTS ALONG THE SHORE. 191 

" The Nina sees it," Hernando whispered to 
the admiral "See how she presses forward. 
Santa Maria, what a sailor she is ! " 

The bov and admiral stood side by side, the 
former in breathless excitement, and the latter 
calm and unmoved, watching the ship. 

"See, see," cried Hernando, clapping his hands 
with joy. " She hoists a flag at her masthead, 
and there goes a gun." 

The boom of one of the ship's cannon at this 
moment rang out over the sea. New joy was 
awakened throughout the little squadron, and 
every eye was turned to the west. As they 
advanced, however, their cloud-built hopes faded 
away, and before evening the fancied land had 
again melted into air. 

Again dejection settled on the crew, and it 
required all the skill of Columbus to rouse them. 

" Look at the great flights of birds going south- 
west," he argued. " They must be secure of some 
neighboring land, where they will find food and a 
resting-place. The Portuguese attach great im- 
portance to the flight of birds, by following which 
they have made most of their discoveries." 

Columbus had now come seven hundred and 
fifty leagues, the distance at which he had expected 
to find the island of Cipango ; as there was no 
appearance of it, he might have missed it through 
some mistake in the latitude. On the 7th of 



192 COLUMBIA. 

October, he hailed the Pinta, and asked her cap- 
tain to come aboard the /Santa Maria. When he 
came Columbus said : 

"I have been thinking, Pinzon, that we might 
have passed the island of Cipango, and, as all the 
birds seem flying west-southwest, we had better 
alter our course to that point, for two or three days 
at least."* 

" I am in accord with you, admiral ; it will not 
be much of a deviation, anyway," returned Martin 
Alonzo Pinzon. 

" I shall give immediate orders for the whole 
squadron to sail in the new course which I have 
laid down for three days." 

During the three days in which the squadron 
stood in the new course, the flights of birds in- 
creased as they advanced. 

But, as land was not reached, the crew came 
to regard all this as so many delusions beguiling 
them on to destruction ; and when, on the evening 
of the third day, they beheld the sun go down on 
a shoreless ocean, they broke forth into a turbulent 
clamor. They exclaimed against this obstinacy, 
as they termed it, in continuing a voyage into a 

* This determination to change his course to west-south- 
>!?est, a course always favored by the Pinzons, doubtless gave 
rise to the absurdly untrue story, that Columbus had prom- 
ised the mutineers, if no land was discovered in three days, 
he would return to Spain. 



LIGHTS ALONG THE SHORE. 193 

boundless ocean, and insisted on abandoning it as 
hopeless and foolish. The seeds of dissension 
sown by Miguel had taken firm root, and, though 
tlie chief mutineer was in chains below, his deeds 
lived after him. 

Columbus tried to pacify them by gentle words 
and large rewards, but, finding their clamor in- 
creasing, he once more assumed a decided tone. 
Calling Hernando, Roderigo de Escobar, Diego 
de Arana, Roderigo Sanchez, and all the officers 
and gentry of the king's housebold about him, 
they donned swords and bucklers, and once more 
faced the mutineers. 

Stern determination was marked in every line- 
ament of the admiral's features, and advancing on 
the mob, which, sullen and almost defiant, had 
fallen back to the forecastle, the great man cried : 

" I have come to crush out this mutiny forever. 
It is useless for you to murmur. The expedition 
has been sent out by your sovereigns to seek the 
Indies; and, happen what may, I am determined 
to persevere, until, by the blessing of God, I shall 
accomplish the enterprise." 

For the time being Columbus and the officers 
over-awed the mutineers, but from day to day 
they continued to murmur, and gradually grew 
more bold. Fortunately the manifestations of 
land on the following day no longer admitted of 
doubt. At early morn Hernando was in the fore- 
13 



194 COLUMBIA. 

• 

castle, and called the admiral's attention to the 
increased quantity of seaweeds. 

" I observed them, but we have had floating 
weeds for days." 

" There's something we've not had," cried the 
boy, pointing to an object in the water near the 
prow of the vessel. 

" What, my lad ? " 

" There is a green 'fish — such as keeps about 
the rocks." 

" True, true — you are quite right ; I see it now 
myself, my lad. That is certainly a good omen." 

" And there — look, what is that ? " the boy 
shouted in a burst of joy. 

"What— where?" 

"A bush — a floating bush." 

"I see it," cried the admiral, almost as much 
elated as the lad. '•'■Lower a hoat^ 

" Let me go and get it? " cried Hernando. 

"You shall." 

Consequently, when the boat was lowered, Her- 
nando took his place in the bow. Six sturdy 
sailors seized the oars, and the boat glided through 
the waters to the bush, which was a branch of 
thorn-bush on which grew some red berries. 
Hernando seized it with a shout of joy, notwith- 
standing his hands were lacerated by the thorns. 
As the boat rowed back to the ship, he plucked 
off one of the berries, saying : 



LIGHTS ALONG THE SHORE. 195 

" I will be first to eat the fruit of the new 
world." 

The berry was tart, but nutricious, and of a 
species unknown to Columbus. The admiral 
next tasted of the berries, and sent a few to the 
Pinzons. The same day they picked up a reed, a 
small board, and a staff artificially carved. All 
gloom and mutiny now gave way to sanguine ex- 
pectation ; and throughout the day, each one was 
eagerly on the watch, in the hope of being first to 
discover the long-sought land. 

At sunset a sailor, approaching Columbus, 
saluted him meekly, and said : 

" My lord admiral, I come from the prisoner 
Miguel, who has grown sick with confinement, and 
now that land is almost reached implores his lib- 
erty." 

With a fixed, unmovable countenance, and a 
voice decidedly stern, Columbus answered : 

" No. Miguel has proved our enemy. He has 
fomented all the discontent, and been the author 
of much of the misery we have suffered, and such 
mischief-makers cannot be granted liberty before 
the promised land is reached," 

" Will he be given his liberty then ? " 

" Perhaps." 

" He prays that he may be with the great and 
good admiral when he lands." 

Columbus, unable to refuse so small a request. 



196 COLUMBIA 

granted it. That evening when, according to the 
invariable custom on board the admiral's ship, the 
mariners had sang the Salve Reyma, or vesper 
hjmn to the Virgin, he made an impressive ad- 
dress to the crew. 

"Think how good God has been to us in con- 
ducting us by soft and favorable breezes across 
a tranquil ocean, cheering our hopes with fresh 
signs, increasing as our fears are augmented, and 
thus leading and guiding ns to the promised land," 
he said. " Eemember the orders I gave on leaving 
the Canaries, that after sailing westward seven 
hundred leagues, we make no sail after midnight. 
Present appearances authorize such a precaution. 
It is probable that we will make land this very 
night, so keep a vigilant lookout from the fore- 
castle, and whoever shall make the discovery will 
receive in addition from the sovereigns a doub- 
let of velvet." 

The breeze had been fresh all day, with more 
sea than usual, and the progress had been con- 
siderable. At sunset they again stood west- 
ward, and ploughed the waves at a rapid rate, 
the Pinta^ owing to her superior sailing, keeping 
ahead. Great animation prevailed throughout 
the ships, and not an eye was closed for sleep that 
night. 

As Columbus took his station on the top of the 
castle (at this day called cabin), on the high poop 



LIGHTS ALONO THE SHORE. 197 

of his vessel, to watch, Hernando, who followed 
him, asked: 

"Can I stay at your side to-night? " 

" You can, brave lad. We shall see the fruition 
of all hopes ere the dawn of daj'." 

" Will my father be there? Will I find him ? " 

" I hope to find him and many other brave sail- 
ors who may have been cast away." 

About ten o'clock at night Columbus thought 
he beheld a light glimmering in the distance. 

"Hernando, do you see anything?" he asked. 

"Where?" 

" Look straight ahead." 

After a few moments' staring into the intense 
darkness, the boy answered : 

" I believe I see a light." 

" Are you quite sure? " 

" I — I am not. Yet it glimmers." 

CI 

At this moment Pedro Gutierrez, gentleman 
of the king's bed-chamber, chanced to pass by, 
and Columbus hailed him. 

"Ay, ay," he answered. 

" Do you see a light ahead ? " 

" By the mass, I believe I do." 

Columbus was now trembling with excitement, 
but determined to be certain ere he announced 
land. He called to Rodrigo Sanchez, of Segovia, 
and made the same inquiry. 

" Come up to the round-house and be quite cer- 



198 COLUMBIA. 

tain ere you answer," said the admiral. Before he 
could ascend to the round-house the lights had 
disappeared. They saw them once or twice after- 
ward, in sudden and passing gleams, as if thej 
were torches in the barks of fishermen, rising and 
sinking on the waves, or in the hand of some per- 
son on the shore, borne up and down as he 
walked from house to house. 

So certain were they that they were approach- 
ing land, and so eager to sight it during the night, 
that despite former orders the vessels continued 
under easy sail until two o'clock in the morning. 

Rodrigo de Triana, a sailor on board the Pinta, 
was at the masthead, piercing the darkness with 
eyes that had long been accustomed to the sea. 
Suddenly his convictions became a certainty, and 
he gave the joyful shout of discovery. There 
was no mistake now, and from a heart overbur- 
dened with joy lie shouts : 

"Land, land, land!"* 

The joyful cry is taken up by all the squadron, 
and cannon boomed forth the glad tidings — the 
discovery of a new world, found for mankind 
once more. 

There was no sleep that night, and all was 
given up to joy and thanksgiving. Land not two 

* The reward was afterward adjudged to the admiral, he 
having first seen the light along the shoi'e. 



LIGHTS ALONG THE SHORE. I99 

leagues away was plainly to be seen. Columbus 
ordered the vessels to lay to and wait for morning ; 
and, as the admiral paced the deck with cheeks 
wet with tears of joy, Hernando pressed his hand, 
and asked : 

" My good and great friend, will I see my father 
on the morrow ? " 

" God grant you may, brave, noble lad, and 
faithful son." 



CHAPTER XII. 

SEARCH FOR THE GRAND KHAN. 

" God in heaven be glorified ! " 

The thoughts and feelings of Columbus from 
discovery of land to dawn of day were tumultuous 
and intense. At last, despite every difficulty and 
danger, the great object of his life had been 
accomplished. The mystery of the ocean was 
revealed ; his theory, which had been the scoff of 
sages, was triumphantly established, and he had 
secured to himself a glory durable as the world 
itself. 

It is difficult to conceive the feelings of such a 
man at such a moment, or the conjectures which 
throuijed his mind as to the land before him en- 
shrouded in darkness. It was fruitful, as had 
been evinced by the vegetables floating from the 
shores. Even as he paraded the deck of his vessel 
he thought he perceived a strange aromatic fra- 
grance from the shores of that mystic land. Up 
and down, up and down the deck, all night long 
the admiral paced, building air-castles and dream- 
ins dreams mortal had never dared dream before. 
Would the rising sun throw its burning rays on a 
thousand gilded towers and blazing minarets of 



SEARCH FOR THE GRAND KHAN. 201 

some strange city, or would he merely find a des- 
ert island, populated by a few shipwrecked mari- 
ners ? 

Hernando as hopefully and prayerfully paced 
the deck on that night as did Columbus. 

" Father in heaven and the saints be praised ! 
Oh, grant that I may find him in this strange, 
new world ! Seas, cease your murmurs ; the cap- 
tive shall no longer be in chains." 

The waves laving the sides of the vessel seemed 
to the quick imagination of Hernando to laugh in 
bubbling joy. 

"Would the night never wear away? Every 
man on board the ships was eager for the dawn. 
Oh, for one flash of sunlight to reveal to them 
that strange, mysterious shore ! Never so longed 
a crew to see the daylight come. The moving 
lights which had first discovered the strange land 
to them was convincing evidence that it was the 
residence of man. But who were its inhabitants? 
Were they like those of other parts of the globe, 
or were they some strange, monstrous race, such 
as the imagination was prone at those times to 
give to all remote and unknown regions? Was 
the land before them some wild island of the far 
Indian sea, or the far-famed Cipango, the object of 
such golden fancies ? 

As the night grew darker ere dawn, there were 
those among the sailors who thought, after all, it 



202 COL UMBIA. 

w;is anotlicr uij'tli, tluit would pass away with the 
morning light. 

The first faint strcalcs appearing in the eastern 
horizon brought the peo])le of every ship to the 
sides of the vessels, and all eyes were strained to 
catch a glimpse of that unknown land. 

" It's there; it's no cloud that the sunlight will 
dispel," wliispered a dozen. 

A sailor touched the admiral's arm, and, gain- 
ing his attention, bowed and meekly said : 

"I hope the admiral has not forgotten the 
unfortunate Miguel, who languishes a prisoner 
below?" 

" Go and liberate him," was the answer. 

" The admiral is so very kind " 

" Away." I- 

Brighter and brighter grew the morning every 
second, until the sable cloak of night had been 
changed to the sober gray of twilight, which, 
chameleon like, was growing to a rosy light. The 
chill of early morn was unnoticed by Columbus 
or his shivering, sleepless crew. 

The libcj'ated Miguel climbed to the deck, and, 
gazing out over the gunwale, saw the land for 
which the white-haired man and his boy compan- 
ion had dared so much. Then and there, had he 
possessed a spark of manhood in his dark soul, he 
would have relented. But his small, cunning eyes 
gleamed with a new thought, and he mentally said : 



8EARVH FOR THE OR AN I) KUAN. 203 

"Neither Columbus nor the lad shall be first to 
return with the glad news of this discovery. The 
laurels they would win shall be plucked from their 
brows." 

It was on Friday morning, the 12th of October, 
1492, that Columbus first saw the New W(m-1(I, 
As day dawned, his eager eyes beheld before him 
a level island, several leagues in extent and covered 
with trees, like a continual orchard. No signs of 
cultivation or civilization woiv; observable, and, 
but for the dark heads peeping out at them from 
the dense foliage, he would have believed it unin- 
habited. At last a strange, wild people, dark red 
and y)erfectly naked, could be seen running from 
all parts of the woods down to the seashore. 

" Do you see my father among them ? " the lad 
asked, as Columbus turned his glass on the men 
of this strange, new land. 

" No, my lad ; but a slave would probably bo 
left in the interior.". 

Columbus brushed a t(!ar from his eye as he 
spoke. He knew how fond the delusion had 
grown, and how bitter would be the disappoint- 
ment. The belief had become an hallucination 
with Hernando. 

Tlic admiral made signal for the ships to cast 
anchor and the boats to be manned and armed. 
It was a solemn and impressive ceremony : the 
man who had suffered and dared so much was 



204 COLUMBIA. 

now about to take possession of this new-found 
world in the name of Spain. Columbus, accom- 
panied by several royal officers, including the 
notary public, and Hernando Estevan, the muti- 
neer, and a number of armed sailors, set out for 
shore. Martin Alonzo Pinzon and his brother, 
Vincent Yanez, put off in their separate boats to 
accompany him, each with a banner of the enter- 
prise, emblazoned with a green cross, having on 
either side the letters "T" and " Y," the initials 
of the Castilian monarchs, Fernando and Ysabel, 
surmounted by crowns. 

For this imposing ceremony Columbus was 
richly attired in scarlet, and carried the royal 
standard. 

As he approached the shore, the explorer was 
disposed to all kinds of agreeable impressions, 
and delighted with the purity and suavity of the 
atmosphere, the crystal transparency of the sea, 
and extraordinary beauty of the vegetation. Un- 
known fruits grew in rich abundance, overhang- 
ing the shore, and, it being high tide, even kissing 
the incoming sea. 

Columbus stood in the bow of the boat, watch- 
ing the naked inhabitants timidly retreating among 
the trees as they advanced toward the shore. 

Landing, Columbus threw himself on his knees, 
kissed the earth, and returned thanks to God with 
tears of joy — an example followed by nearly all 




LANDlNIi OK COIAIMKIIS. 



SEARCH FOR THE GRAND KHAN. 205 

the others, whose hearts overflowed with gratitude. 
Then risiDg, the admiral drew his sword, displayed 
the royal standard, and assembling around him 
the two great captains, with Roderigo de Escobar, 
notary of the armament, Roderigo Sanchez, and 
others, he took solemn possession in the name of 
the Castilian sovereigns, giving the island the 
name of San Salvador. Having complied with 
the requisite forms and ceremonies, he called on 
all present to take the oath of obedience to him- 
self as admiral and viceroy, representing the per- 
sons of the sovereigns. 

Then Columbus offered the following prayer, 
which we give in the original, just as uttered : 

" Domine Deus^ ceterne et omnipotens, sacra tuo 
verho Coelum^ et terram., et mnai'e creasti ; henedicatur 
et glorificetur nomen tuum, laudetur tua majestas., 
qucB dignita est p"r humilem servum tuwm.^ ut ejus 
sacrum nomen agnoscatur^ et prccdicetur in hoc altera 
mundi parted 

The crew now burst forth in transports of joy, 
and the mutineers were loudest in their praises of 
the man whom they, a few days before, were so 
anxions to put to death. 

Hernando was still kneeling, when a voice just 
above him said, in a hard, harsh whisper : 

"You have triumphed at last." 

On glancing upward, the lad saw bending over 
him the evil face of Miguel the mutineer, who so 



206 COLUMBIA. 

nearly brought about a disastrous failure. There 
was a devilish, malignant expression in the vil- 
lain's face, which boded neither Columbus nor the 
lad good, 

Hernando was too much preoccupied with the 
imposing ceremony of discovery and conquest, to 
give much heed to the mutineer. Some of the 
more avaricious of the sailors were down on the 
sands searching for particles of gold, pearls, and 
shells. 

Since early dawn the natives had watched those 
three great monsters, which they believed to be 
enormous sea-birds, and when they sent out boats 
filled with strange beings clad in glittering steel, 
and various colored, they became frightened, and 
fled to the woods. Hernando was anxious to 
speak with the natives, and as soon as the impos- 
ing ceremony was over he rose and went to the 
nearest grove of trees, where a few of the bolder 
remained. 

The natives finding they were not pursued, six 
of them, among whom was one female, young, 
beautiful, and well formed, but perfectly naked, 
advanced toward the Spaniards, xlfter prostrat- 
ing themselves several times, they came to the 
admiral, whom they recognized, by his splendid 
raiment and noble demeanor, to be chief in author- 
it}'. A few moments later, when they had some- 
what overcome their astonishment and fear, they 



SEARCH FOR THE GRAND KHAN. 207 

approached the Spaniards, touched their beards, 
and examined their hands and faces, admiring 
their whiteness. 

Hernando went boldly to one of the oldest of 
the natives, one who seemed to be in authority, 
and asked : 

" Can you tell me where my father is? " 

The savage gazed at him in wonder, but made 
no answer. 

" Do you know where the white prisoner is?" 
asked the lad, still answered only by a stare of 
stupefied amazement. 

"He doesn't understand you," said Columbus. 

" Where will we find him ? He must be some- 
where on the island." 

"Be patient," returned the admiral. "All 
things come to those who learn to wait. We are 
on one of tlie extreme islands of the Indies, and 
may find your father farther inland." 

The hope and expectancy which had buoyed 
Hernando up all through the long voyage now 
began to give place to doubt, and he was almost 
ready to despair. But there was excitement and 
interest enough to keep his mind constantly 
engaged. The Spaniards were disappointed in 
not finding gold more abundant, but the admiral 
assured them that they would find large quantities 
farther inland, or on some other island. 

The admiral distributed among the natives 



208 COLUMBIA. 

colored caps, glass beads, hawks-bells, and other 
such trifles as the Portuguese were accustomed to 
trade with among the nations of the gold coast of 
Africa. 

In every manner possible, the anxious lad tried 
to make his wishes known to the natives. The 
young woman, who seemed possessed of a higher 
degree of intelligence than the others, listened 
attentively to his words, studied his pantomime 
with care, yet comprehended nothing. She knew 
the lad was in distress, and her simple, untutored 
heart went out to him ; she tried to console him, 
but he was as ignorant of her intent as she was 
of his language. 

Next morning the shore was thronged with 
natives, some even swimming off to the ship, or 
paddling about in their canoes. They were all 
eager to procure more toys and trinkets, not so 
much for any intrinsic value which they thought 
them to possess, as that they believed they came 
from beings from another world. 

The island where Columbus had thus first set 
foot in the New World was called bj the natives 
Guanahane. It still retains the name of San Sal- 
vador, but it is sometimes called by the English 
Cat Island, 

" This is not the island of Cipango," said 
Columbus to the Pinzons, after exploring San 
Salvador. 



SEARCH FOR THE GRAND KHAN. 209 

"No," answered Martin Alonzo Pinzon. 

"Yet Cipango is not far away." 

" I thmk not." 

" We will continue our voyage westward, until 
it is found." 

" If we could understand the language of the 
natives, admiral, they might tell us many things," 
said Hernando. 

" I have thought of that, my lad, and iiave 
determined to take with us seven of these natives, 
to teach them the Spanish language. We will 
leave San Salvador on to-morrow, and keep them 
constantly with us as our guides in the New 
World." 

The admiral carried out his plans, taking seven 
of the natives, among whom was the Indian girl 
who had displayed a remarkable degree of intelli- 
gence. They proved ready pupils, and in a few 
days began to pick up various words in Spanish, 
though they conversed more by signs. 

They found a vast number of green islands, 

level and fertile, all about them. The Indians on 

board intimated that they were innumerable, well 

peopled, and at war with each other. Columbus 

spent much of his time teaching the Indians and 

asking them questions. They gave him the 

names of over a hundred islands, and he turned 

to Martin Pinzon, who wJas at liis side, and said: 

" There can no longer be a doubt that we are 
14 



210 COLUMBIA. 

among those islands described by Marco Polo as 
studding the sea of China, and lying a great dis- 
tance from the mainland." 

At the various islands at which thev touched, 
they found the Indians peaceable, and, as soon as 
they had overcome their timidity, perfectly will- 
ing to come on board. They told Columbus of a 
warlike tribe, called the Caribs, who made war on 
others. 

" Maybe the Caribs have my father a captive," 
said the lad. 

One day Hernando asked the girl again about 
his father, and she gave him some signs of encour- 
agement, which led him to believe that his father 
was among the Caribs, 

The Indian's food was cassava bread and fruit ; 
his drink, water. From island to island the ex- 
plorers went, filled with new wonder, as the 
islands grew larger, the mountains higher and 
more imposing. 

But the mischief -breeder was ever busy, Miguel, 
in the employ of Garcia Estevan, determined to 
even yet make the expedition a failure, or at least 
to rob Columbus of any share in the glory. He 
was a shrewd knave and a good judge of human 
character. He had noted how Martin Alonzo 
Pinzon seemed to chafe under the admiral's com- 
mand, not that Columbus was harsh. 

One day, while on board the Pwto, he asked 



SEARCH FOR THE GRAND KHAN. 211 

to talk with the captain. Martin Alonzo was an 
austere man, but the villain managed to approach 
him on some pretence, and when they were alone 
he said : 




"What I am about to say mat cost me mt Life." 

"Senor Captain Pinzon, why do you allow this 
foreigner to win all the honors of this expedition ? " 
" What do you mean ? " demanded Pinzon. 
" Don't you understand me? " 
"I do not." 



212 ' COLUMBIA. 

" I was asking myself, sefior captain, if I dared 
make myself plain." 

"Why not?" 

" What I am about to say may cost me my 
life, and you can comprehend why I am a little 
wary of my speech." 

Pinzon assured himself that no one was within 
earshot, and answered : 

" You and I are alone, and I can assure you 
that I will in confidence receive every word you 
may say." 

" Nor be offended at my boldness ? " 

"No." 

" I was about to ask why you should allow 
this foreigner, Christopher Columbus, to bear 
off all the honors and emoluments of an expe- 
dition for which you deserve more credit than 
he." 

" I — I don't see how I can help it." 

"There is a way, captain." 

"What is it?""' 

"There is no need that this Genoese beggar 
should come, and by your help, 3'our money, 
ships, and sailors, make discoveries that will place 
him next to the throne. What would he have 
been but for you ? " 

"Nothing." 

"Only a beggar," added the shrewd Miguel. 
" For him you paid an eighth, while he paid 



SEARCH FOR THE GRAND KHAN. 213 

notliing. He bad nothing to risk but a miser- 
able and precarious existence. You risked life 
and fortune. Now, why should he reap all the 
reward ? " 

Shrewder argument could not have been offered, 
and it made a deep impression on Pinzon, though 
he was too shrewd to let the villain know it. 
After a few moments' hesitation, he answered : 
" I don't see how I can prevent it." 
With a shrewd smile Miguel answered : 
" If the captain will allow me, I will suggest, 
that, should he put about some dark night, sail at 
once for Spain, and make report of this great dis- 
covery to the king and queen, he would be first 
to gain their favor, and Columbus would be only 
secondary." 

Martin Alonzo Pinzon started at the suggestion 
and fixed his great black eyes on the mutineer. 
Surely a more devilish face never before greeted 
the vision of man. It was full of evil, full of 
cunning and malignance, while the eyes shone 
with the fiendish light of a serpent. Martin 
Alonzo did not decide at once -to follow the base 
suggestion ; in fact, at first he rejected it as dis- 
honorable. But the matter kept weighing on his 
mind from day today, until the scheme, dishonor- 
able as it was, had taken complete possession of 
him, and eventually proved his ruin. 

A few days after leaving San Salvador, Colum- 



214 COLUMBIA. 

bus discovered Fernandina, a beautiful island, 
which he left on the 19th of October, The natives 
frequently spoke of a large island where gold and 
diamonds were in abundance, pointing off to the 
southwest as the locality where the riches were to 
be found. Columbus understood them to speak 
of some powerful monarch, whom he supposed to 
be the Grand Khan. Next they discovered an 
island, which they named Isabella after the queen 
of Castile. 

Here were large lakes of fresh water, with mar- 
vellous groves about them, and everything as 
green as Andalusia in April. The music of 
birds filled the forests with sweetest melodies, 
and fruits and flowers abounded in profusion. 
But Columbus was disappointed in not discov- 
ering drugs and s]:)ices, which he had hoped to 
find. 

From island to island they wandered, finding 
naked Indians and mute dogs, and but little gold. 
But ever in the hope of reaching the Grand Khan 
and delivering to him the letters from his sove- 
reigns, Columbus continued his westward voyage, 
until, on the 28th of October, they came in sight of 
Cuba. The Spaniards were long in doubt whether 
this was the island of Cipango or a continent. 
They were struck with awe as they a]jproached 
the noble island, with its lofty mountains, grand 
harbors, and rivers. 



SEARCH FOR THE GRAND KHAN. 215 

Columbus was in a mood to see everything 
through a favoring medium. His heart was full 
to overflowing, for he was enjoying the fulfilment 
of his hopes, and the hard-earned but glorious 
reward of his toils and perils. Cuba broke on him 
like an elysium. 

"It is the most beautiful island eye ever be- 
held," exclaimed the enraptured explorer. He 
found it full of excellent ports and profound 
rivers. The natives, who were timid at first, 
afterward became bolder, and, when they found 
the strangers were kind, became friendly. Many 
expeditions were made into the interior, up the 
rivers, and into the forests. 

The natives whom Columbus had undertaken 
to instruct in Spanish were not yet proficient in 
the language, and the misinterpretation of their 
words caused many serious mistakes. Under- 
standing from them that a powerful king lived 
in the interior, and believing him to be the 
Grand Khan, Columbus determined to send two 
envoys, in company with Indian guides, across 
the country in search for him. For the mis- 
sion he chose two Spaniards, Eodrigo de Jerez 
and Luis de Torres, the latter a converted Jew, 
who knew Hebrew and Chaldic, and even some- 
thing of Arabic, one or more of which Colum- 
bus supposed might be known to this Oriental 
prince. 



216 COLUMBIA. 

" Can I go with them ? " asked Hernando, when 
the embassy was ready to start on its march 
through the wilderness, " They go to the interior, 
and may discover my captive father." 

The admiral consented, and, shouldering his 
cross-bow, the lad accompanied the envoys. 

The expedition proved a failure, for the Grand 
Khan could not be found, and the ambassadors 
were compelled to return with the report of only 
a wilderness which seemed unending-. On their 
return Hernando saw the Indians 2:oino; about 
with fire-brands in their hands, and a certain dried 
herb which they rolled up in a leaf, and lighting 
one end, put the other in their mouths and ex- 
haled and puffed smoke. 

He asked an Indian what it was, and was 
answered by the one word : 

" Tobacco." 

Filled with boyish curiosity, Hernando asked 
one of the Indians for a roll, and on being given 
one lighted it. So he was not only the first white 
man to eat of the fruit of the New World, but first 
to smoke a cigar. A few whiffs at it, and he be- 
came deathly sick. His white companions became 
ver}^ uneasy, but the Indians evinced no con- 
cern. Rodrigo de Jerez and Luis de Torres sup- 
posed that the lad was poisoned, and threatened 
to kill the Indians ; but Hernando shortly re- 
covered, and never again would he touch tobacco, 



SEARCH FOR THE GRAND KHAN. 217 

although he lived to see the use of it growing 
popular. 

"The islands of Babeque and Boliio were so often 
mentioned by the natives that Columbus deter- 
mined to go in search of them, on the return of 
his ambassadors. 

On the 12th of November, Columbus turned 
his course to the east southeast, to follow back 
the direction of the coast ; and on the 19th again 
the squadron put to sea, and for two days made 
ineffectual attempts, against head-winds, to reach 
an island directly east, about sixty miles dis- 
tant, which he supposed to be Babeque. The 
words breathed into the ears of Martin Alonzo 
Pinzon by the mutineer, like all other evil, began 
to grow and take possession of his soul, and he 
who was the truest, trustiest friend of Columbus 
in his darkest hours now became a cool, calculat- 
ing, treacherous enemy. The wind continuing 
obstinately adverse and the sea rough, Colum- 
bus put his ship about toward evening of the 
20th, making signals for the others to follow 
him. 

The Pinta, which was considerably to east- 
ward, paid no attention to his signals. Colum- 
bus repeated them, but they were still -unat- 
tended to. Night coming on, he shortened sail 
and hoisted signal lights to the masthead, think- 
ing Pinzon would yet join him, which he could 



218 COLUMBIA. 

easily do, having the wind astern ; but when 
morning dawned the Pinta was no longer to be 
seen. 

" What does that mean ? " asked the amazed 
admiral, 

Miguel heard the question, and walked forward 
to conceal his pleasure. 



CHAPTER Xni. 

FORT NATIVITY. 

Columbus was greatly put out by the conduct 
of Martin Alonzo Pinzon. He tried to believe 
the Pmta would yet join them, but all the while 
suffered no little uneasiness on account of the 
missing ship. Some sudden swell of the sea might 
have hurled her upon the breakers, and at that 
very moment she might be a wreck among the 
rocks on some of the islands. In order to find the 
Pinta^ he put back to Cuba, and hugged its coast 
as closely as he dared, on account of the reefs of 
rock and dangerous sandbars. He explored many 
rivers and harbors which to-day bear the names 
he gave them. 

But at last, under belief that he was going 
to the golden island of Bohio, where, from the 
imperfect account of the savages, gold was to be 
found in abundance, he set sail from the coast of 
Cuba, and reached the island of Hayti, which the 
admiral named Hispaniola, because of the fancied 
resemblance to the island to Spain. 

In the transparent atmosphere of the tropics, 
objects are descried at a great distance ; and the 
purity of the air and serenity of the deep blue 



220 COLUMBIA. 

sky give a magical effect to the scenery. Under 
these advantages, the beautiful island of Hayti 
revealed itself to the eye as thej approached it. 
Its mountains were higher and more rocky than 
those of the other islands, and the stone cropped 
out from among the densest and richest forests. 
The mountains swept down into luxuriant plains 
and green savannas; while the appearance of culti- 
vated fields, of numerous fires at night, and col- 
umns of smoke by day, proved it to be populous. 

It was evening, on the 6th of December, that 
Columbus entered a fine harbor, which he called 
St. Nicholas. On the next day they coasted along 
the island, and entered a harbor which they called 
Port Conception, now known as the Bay of 
Moustique. 

" We must find some means of communicating 
with the natives," said Columbus. " As they fly 
at our approach, I will send six armed men into 
the interior." 

Hernando, with faint hope of finding his father 
in the interior, begged to be one of the number, 
and was granted the privilege. They found sev- 
eral cultivated fields and traces of roads and 
places where fires had been made, but the inhabi- 
tants had fled in terror to the mountains. 

On the 12th Hernando and a sailor captured an 
Indian girl, who wore an ornament of gold in her 
nose, which gave hope of precious metal. She 



FORT NATIVITY. 221 

was clothed and loaded with presents, and sent 
with some Indian interpreters and sailors to assure 
her people that the white strangers were friends. 

Hernando made inquii-y of the natives of Hayti 
for his father, but, as before, was not understood. 
He concluded that his father must be at Babeque, 
or a captive among the warlike Caribs of whom 
he heard such frequent mention. 

On the 14tli of December Columbus made an- 
other attempt to find the island of Babeque, but 
was once more bafifled by adverse winds. He 
landed at an island which, from the abundance of 
turtles, he called Tortugas. This island in after 
years became the headquarters of the famous buc- 
caneers of the West Indies. 

For several days the admiral continued beating 
about the island of Hayti, unable, from contrary- 
winds and adverse tides, to make much headway. 
On the 24th of December he set sail from Port St. 
Thomas, and steered to eastward with the inten- 
tion of anchoring at the harbor of the cacique 
G-uacanagari. The wind was from the land, but 
so light as to scarce fill the sails. 

Since Miguel's release from imprisonment, Co- 
lumbus had had no reason to doubt his honor or 
sincerity. The fellow was an expert seaman, and, 
though he had been constantly setting traps to 
encompass the ruin of Columbus, the over-confi- 
dent admiral supposed that his enmity would end 



222 COLUMBIA, 

witli the discovery of land. It was nigbt, and 
Columbus, worn out by long watching, placed the 
helm in the hands of Miguel as the most skilful 
mariner, and, ordering him to remain at his post, 
went to his cabin to seek a little much-needed 
sleep. 

Hernando was still on deck, and no sooner had 
Columbus retired than the steersman called to 
him. 

" Well ? " the lad answered. 

" Come and take the helm." 

"It is against orders," interposed Hernando. 
"You are instructed to never intrust the helm to 
one of the ship's boys." 

" Come and take it, but for a moment." 

"I must not." 

"Then I will leave it." 

Hernando was in a quandary, but, as the sailor 
evinced a careless disposition in the matter, he 
thought it better to have a boy at the helm than 
no one, and consented to take it. The other 
sailors took advantage of the absence of Colum- 
bus, and in a little while the entire watch was 
buried in slumber. In the mean time, the treach- 
erous currents which run swiftly along this coast 
carried the vessel forcibly upon a sand-bank. 
The boy heard not the roar of breakers fihead, 
until he felt the ship strike, and then he shouted : 

" Help ! quick, Miguel, or we'll be wrecked." 



FORT NATIVITY. 223 

Columbus, whose cares never permitted him to 
sleep profoundly, was first on deck. The master 
of the ship, whose duty was to have been on 
watch, next made his appearance, followed by 
others of the crew only half-awake, and frightened 
out of their wits. 

" What is the meaning of this ? " demanded 
Columbus. 

" We are grounded, admiral," answered Her- 
nando. 

" Where is the helmsman ? " 

"I was at the helm." 

" You ! " 

" Yes, admiral." 

" Where is the sailor ? Where is the watch ? " 

" All here," cried several voices about him, and 
the deck was now covered with men. Columbus 
knew it was time for action rather than reproof. 
He ordered the sailors to take !he boat, carry 
the anchor astern, and work the vessel ofi". The 
master and sailors, among whom was Miguel, 
sprang into the boat ; but confused, as men are 
apt to be when suddenly awakened by an alarm, 
instead of obeying the commands of Columbus 
they rowed off to the Nina., about half a league to 
windward. 

Vincent Yanez Pinzon no sooner learned of the 
base desertion of the admiral, than he manned 
his own boat and hastened to the relief of Colum- 



224 COL UMBIA. 

bus. But nothing could be clone at that time for 
the Santa Maria, though Columbus had her masts 
cut away. She was deeply imbeddeil in the sand, 
and her stern swinging around broad-side to the 
breakers, she was forced bj each succeeding wave 
farther and farther upon the shore, until she fell 
over on one side. Fortunately the weather con- 
tinued calm, otherwise the ship must have gone to 
pieces, and the entire crew might have perished 
amid the currents and breakers. • 

Columbus and crew took refuge on board the 
caravel. Diego de Arana, chief judge of the ar- 
mament, and Pedro Gutierrez, the king's butler, 
were immediately sent on shore as envoys to the 
cacique Guacanagari, to inform liim of the in- 
tended visit and disastrous shipwreck. 

The cacique lived about a league away, and 
when he heard of the disastrous shipwreck of his 
visitors he actually slied tears. All liis people, 
with all their canoes, were placed at the service 
of tbe admiral, and the stranded vessel was soon 
unloaded. The utmost kindness and greatest 
hospitality were shown to the whites^ and every- 
thing in the power of the natives was done to make 
them comfortable. 

The day after Christmas, the cacique Guacana- 
gari came on board the MTia to see Columbus. 
He was much moved by the dejected 'havior of 
the admiral, and offered every consolation in liis 



FORT NATIVITY. 225 

power. Hernando saw some Indians coming in 
canoes to the ship, holding up bits of gold of no 
inconsiderable quantity, which they offered for 
hawks-bells and trinkets. He hastened to the 
admiral with the joyful news that gold abounded 
on the island in abundance. 

"Then are we repaid for all our suffering," 
answered the admiral. 

Guacanagari, observing the changed demeanor 
of the admiral, through his interpreter asked the 
cause. 

" Tt is because gold is being brought to the 
admiral," was the answer. 

"Is the great admiral so fond of gold?" the 
cacique asked. 

" He is," answered the interpreter. 

" Not far off, among the mountains, gold is as 
plentiful as stone." 

" Where is it ? " 

"Cibao." 

"Cibao," repeated Columbus, who had been 
listening to the interpreter. "Ay, he means the 
island of Cipango." 

The cacique dined with Columbus on that day, 
and his manner was both modest and princely. 
His whole deportment, in the enthusiastic eyes 
of Columbus, betokened the inborn grace and 
dignity of lofty lineage. Next day Guacanagari 
entertained Columbus and his officers on shore, 
15 



228 COLUMBIA. 

and liad a lliousand natives to amuse his guests. 
After the collation, he conducted the admiral 
and his officials to the beautiful groves which 
surrounded his residence. Here the cacique's 
attendants performed several national games and 
dances, which Guacanagari had ordered to amuse 
the melancholyof his guests. 

"I think it well to give them an exhibition of 
some of our skill in arms," said Columbus to 
"Vincent Yanez Pinzon, when the entertainment 
given by the savages was ended. " Who is our 
best archer?" 

Pinzon answered : 

" Miguel, the mutineer, is by odds the best. He 
served in the wars of Grilnada, and can handle the 
Moorish bow and arrows." 

"Send for him, a Moorish bow and quiver of 
arrows, also for an arquebus antl lombard ; we 
must teach them some of the powers of gun- 
powder." 

Miguel came with the Moorish bow and a 
quiver of arrows. A target was set up at a great 
distance, and the mutineer began sending arrows 
all around it, at last driving one centre. The 
natives were amazed at the wonderful skill which 
he displayed. The cacique then made Columbus 
understand that the Caribs, who often made de- 
scents upon his territory and carried off his sub- 
jects, were likewise armed with bows and arrows. 



FORT NATIVITY. 227 

Througli Ilia interpreter, Columbus answered: 

"Have no more fears of the Caribs, for our 
Castilian nionarclis can destroy them. We have 
weapons still more powerful, as you shall see." 

Hernando then toolc an arquebus, placed the 
rest on the ground, aimed at a small tree some 
distance away, and ap})lying a slow-match, sent 
the ball whizzing through the air, and shattering 
the tender bark. A still greater surprise was in 
store, when the Ioml)ard, or cannon, was fired. 

On hearing the report the Indians fell to the 
ground, as though they had been struck by a thun- 
der-bolt; and when they saw the effects of the 
balls, rending and shivering the trees like a stroke 
of lightning, they were filled with dismay. Being 
assured, however, that the S[)aniards would defend 
them with these arms against their dreaded ene- 
mies the Caribs, their alarm gave place to exulta- 
tion, considering themselves under the protection 
of the sons of Heaven, who had come from the 
skies armed with thunder and lightning. 

" They will always be our friends," said Colum- 
bus to Pinzon, 

After the entertainment was over all went to 
examine the wreck, and on the admiral's asking 
Pinzon his opinion in regard to it, he answered: 

" I don't believe we can ever get it afloat." 

" And the Pinta gone," said Columbus. " I fear 
we could not carry back all in the NiTiay 



228 COLUMBIA. 

" It would greatly crowd her, admiral," 

" I have thousfht that as the sailors are so favor- 
abl}^ impressed with the island and the natives, 
we could build a fort and leave a garrison." 

" Your plan is a wise one, admiral, for it will 
form the germ of a future colony," said Vincent 
Yanez. 

"The wreck of the caravel will easily afford 
materials to construct a fortress, which can be 
defended by her guns, and supplied with her am- 
munition ; while provisions enough can be spared 
to maintain a small garrison for a year." 

After a moment's reflection on the plan, which 
seemed growing in Captain Pinzon's favor, he 
added as a further argument : 

" The people whom we leave can explore the 
island, and make themselves acquainted with its 
mines and other sources of wealth. They might 
at the same time procure by traffic a large quan- 
tity of gold from the natives ; could learn their 
language and accustom themselves to their habits 
and manners, so as to be of great use in future 
intercourse." 

The}' at once proceeded to put the plan in exe- 
cution. The wreck was broken up and brought 
piece-meal to shore ; a site chosen, and prepara- 
tions made for the erection of a tower. On being 
informed that it was the intention of the admiral 
to leave a part of his men for the defence of the 



FORT NATIVITY. 229 

island against tlie Caribs, while lie returiuMl to his 
country for more, Guacanagari was greatly over- 
joyed. His subjects manifested equal delight at 
retaining these wonderful people among them, and 
at the prospect of the future arrival of the ad- 
miral with shi})s freighted with hawks-bells antl 
other articles precious to them. 

Tliey eagerly lent their aid in the construction 
of the fortress, little dreaming that they were 
assisting in placing the galling yoke of perpetual 
slavery and ruin on their own necks. 

The second day after work had been commenced 
on the fortress, some Indians arrived at the har- 
bor from a distant part of the island. The inter- 
preters, Columbus, Hernando, Miguel, and several 
others went to learn what news they brought. 
The interpj'cter, after conferring with them, said: 

"They say a great vessel, like those of the 
admiral, is anchored in a river at the eastern part 
of the island." 

"What vessel can it be?" asked lloderigo de 
Escobedo. 

"It's the P^/^to," cried Columbus, his face light- 
ing uj) with joy, for he feared that something 
serious had happened to the Pinta. 

" The fool ! why didn't he crowd all sail for 
Spain?" Miguel hissed through his clinched teeth, 
turning away to prevent his companions reading 
his face. 



230 COLUMBIA. 

Hernando was the only <>ii(' near cnoui2;]i tolicar 
him. Hastening to his side, \w. asivcd : 

'' What mean you, .senor? " 

"It matters not to you." 

" It does matter to nie," the lad answered, while 
a dangerous light aj)j)earcd in his eyes. Wheel- 
ing about, Miguel walked away into the dense 
wood, and Hernando, determined to know what 
his manner had to do with the strange desertion 
of the Pirda^ followed liini. Drawing his sword, 
the mutineer turned upon tlu; lad and eried : 

" Ni)t a rod fai-ther shall you dog my steps, or 
T will impale you to the earth!" 

" Miguel, mutineer and thief, T know your blade 
heart far better than you tJiink. T have watched 
you, closely studied your every act, and know 
you. You are the indirect cause of our troubles.'' 

" Was I at the helm when the jSanta Afwrid ran 
aground ? " 

"No; but you yielded it up to an inexperi- 
enced hand, when you should have remained at 
your post." 

" T will not be taunted by you, you young dog," 
cried Miguel He asked himself, why delay 
longer, as he was to be rewarded for slaying the 
lad. "He has followed me into the wood. I will 
run him through and conceal the body." With 
uplifted sword he leaped at the lad, crying: 

"You shall die!" 



FORT NATIVITY. ■ 231 

Young as he was, Hernando's life luul more 




Hk was FoKOKlJ 15A<!KWAIU) DOWN TO HIS KnKE. 

tlian once de])ended on his sword, and he was not 
taken off his guard. Snatching his own weapon 



232 COLUMBIA. 

from its sheatli he jiarried the blow, and met his 
antagonist with a coolness and skill wonderful in 
one so young. But what could a boy's sword, be 
it ever so skilfull}" handled, do against such a man 
as Miguel ? lie was forced backward, down to his 
knee, and the heavy blows rained about him in a 
thunder-shower, which threatened to disarm him. 

Hernando was almost overcome, when suddenly 
a tall, dark form leaped from the thicket at his 
side, which he recognized as Guacanagari, the 
cacique, who seized Miguel by the waist as if he 
had been a child, and hurled him several feet 
away, upon the ground. 

The cacique uttered not a word, but his ges- 
tures spoke volumes to the wretch who would 
have slain the lad. 

Hernando k^ft him glaring at his would-be 
assassin, and went back to the fort. T'here he 
learned that Columbus had despatched a canoe, a 
Spaniard, and several Indians to search for the 
Pi Ufa. 

Ho did not tell the admiral of his well-nigh fatal 
encounter with Miguel, and Columbus never knew 
of the struggle in the wood. 

After three days' absence, the canoe sent to 
find the Pinia returned, stating that, tliough they 
had pursued tlu^ coast for twenty leagues, they 
had neither seen nor heard of the Pinki, and had 
come to regard the report as false. 



FORT NATIVITY. 238 

"Perhaps, after all, Martin Alonzo Pirizon has 
had the goorl sense to sail for Spain, and tell 
the monarchs of his discoveries," thought Miguel. 

Since the Hhipwr(;(;k of the Santa Maria., the 
desertion of the Piida was a matter of great con- 
sequence to ColumV>us. Should the Pinta be lost, 
he would now liave but one vessel to return to 
Spain. Should the third vessel perish, every 
record of this great discovery would be swallowed 
up with it, and the name of Columbus be remem- 
bered only as a mad adventurer, who, despising 
the opinions of tlic learned and counsels of the 
wise, had departed into the wilds of the ocean, 
never to return. ^JMie obscurity and imagined 
horrors of his fate might deter all future enter- 
prises, and thus the New World remain, as hereto- 
fore, unknown to civilized man. 

Under these circumstances, Columbus deter- 
mined to abandon all further prosecution of the 
voyage, and for the present give up his purpose 
of visiting the Grand Khan, return to Spain, and 
report his marvellous discovery. 

While the fort, which he named Fortress La 
Navidad, was in course of construction, Guacana- 
gari and five tributary caciques came and placed 
a crown of gold on ilu; lu^ad of Columbus. In 
return, he took from his neck a collai- of fine col- 
ored beads, which he put about that of the cacique, 
gave him his mantle and many trinkets. 



234 <^0L UMBIA. 

So great was the activity of the Spaniards in 
the construction of their fortress, and so ample the 
assistance rendered by the natives, that in ten 
days it was sufficiently complete for service. A 
large vault had been made, over which was erected 
a strong wooden tower, and the whole surmounted 
by a wide ditch. It was stored with ammunition 
saved from the wreck, or that could be spared 
from the caravel ; and, the guns being mounted, 
the whole had a formidable aspect, sufficient to 
overawe and repulse the natives. Columbus really 
thought very little force necessary to hold the 
Haytians in subjection. The fortress and gar- 
rison were more a restriction on the Spaniards 
themselves, to prevent their wandering about or 
committing acts of licentiousness among the 
natives, than for their protection. 

But if it should become a place of defence. Fort 
La Navidad would be no inconsiderable garrison. 



CHAPTER XIY. 

DESERTED — THE STORM. 

" Going home— going back to the Old World, 
and mj mission nnaccomplished. Father still the 
slave of some wild, barbarous people," sobbed 
Hernando Estevan, on the seashore two nights 
before the admiral was to set out on his return. 

Notwithstanding it was the first of January, 
the weather in this tropical clime was pleasant. 
Columbus had been strolling on the beach, think- 
ing how much he had to thank God for, when he 
came upon his little friend bowed down in grief. 

"What, in tears!" cried the admiral. "What 
means this ? " 

"My lord admiral, on the day after to-morrow 
-we sail for the Old World, and my father's fate is 
unknown." 

" My lad," said Columbus, solemnly, " T fear 
this is all a delusion. I have no doubt that 
your father has been dead — lo, these many years. 
Give it up. You have done your duty as a good 
son should, and you can do no more. Come, be 
more cheerful." 

It was like tearing his heart from his bosom to 
give up the hope of finding his father. He paused 



236 COLUMBIA. 

a moment, listening to the sobbing waves, and 
thought he could hear his father's voice among 
them, calling to him for hclj). But the admiral 
assured him it was only his fertile imagination, 
quickened by long dwelling on the subject, and 
by the strongest reasoning and persuasion the lad 
became partially reconciled. 

Next day final arrangements were made for 
the departure. Many volunteered to remain on 
the island, from whom Columbus selected thirty- 
nine of the most able and exemplary, and among 
them a physician, ship-carpenter, caulker, cooper, 
tailor, and gunner, all experts in their several 
callings. The command was given to Diego de 
Arana, a native of Cordova, and notary alquazil 
to tljc armament, who was to retain all the powers 
vested in him by the Catholic sovereigns. In 
case of his death, Pedro Guticri'cz was to com- 
mand, and he dying, lioderigo de Escobcdo. 

The boat of the wreck was left with them to be 
used in fishing; a variety of seeds to sow, and a 
large quantity of articles for traffic, that they 
might procure as much gold as possible by the 
time of the admiral's return. 

Before leaving, Columbus gave the men to be 
left behind some excellent advice, which, if taken, 
might liavc averted the disaster that befell them. 

" Is Miguel going to roiriain, admiral?" asked 
ILcniando. 



DESERTED— TUE STORM. 237 

"No, lie returns with us. A man witli such 
vicious tendencies would be dangerous to the 
colony." 

On the 2(1 of January, 1493, Columbus landed 
to take a farewell of the generous cacique and 
his chieftains, intending next day to set sail. He 
gave them a parting feast at the liouse devoted 
to his use, and commended to their kindness the 
men who were to remain, especially Diego de 
Araua, Pedro Gutierrez, and Koderigo de Esco- 
bedo. 

In order to fully iinj)ress tJin rndiaiis witli the 
warlike prowess of the white men, Columbus 
caused the crews to perform skirmishes and 
sham battles with swords, bucklers, lances, cross- 
bows, arquebuses, and cannon. The natives, as- 
tounded at the accuracy and effect of the small 
arms, were stricken with awe when the heavy 
londjards were discharged from the fortress, wrap- 
])ing it in wreaths of smoke, shaking the forest 
with their report, and shivering trees with the 
heavy stone balls, used in artillery in those 
days. 

Although Columbus had intended to set sail 
on the third day of January from Fort Nativity, 
all arrangements were not completed nor anchor 
weiglied until the morning of the fourth. A 
salute from the fort was answered by a salute from 
the ship. The wind being light, it was necessary 



238 COLUMBIA. 

to tow the caravel out of the harboi- and clear of 
the reefs. They sailed eastward toward a lofty 
promontory, destitute of trees, but covered with 
grass, and tent-like in shape, having at a distance 
the appearance of a towering island, being con- 
nected with Hispaniola by a low neck of land. 
To this promontory Columbus gave the name of 
Monte Christi, by which it is still known. They 
remained near the promontory for two days, and 
again set sail with a favoring breeze. After 
weathering the cape, they had gone about ten 
leagues when the wind again turned to blow 
sharply from the east, and forced them to tack. 

Hernando, who was at the masthead, suddenly 
discovered a vessel standing around a point of 
rocky headland. 

" A sail, a sail ! " he cried. 

"A sail — where away?" asked the admiral, 
who was anxiously pacing the forward deck. 
Hernando pointed it out, and no sooner had the 
eyes of Columbus rested on the vessel, than he 
joyfully cried : 

"It's the Pinta, the Piniay The certainty of 
the fact gladdened the heart of the admiral, and 
had an animating effect throughout the ship ; for 
it was a joyful event to the mariners once more 
to meet with their comrades, and have a compan- 
ion ship on their homeward voyage. 

There was one, however, to whom the sight of 



desertilD—thk storm. 239 

tTie Pinta \v;i.s no joy. Miguel cast one glance at 
the ship, and, recognizing her, walked aft, hissing 
through his teeth : 

"The fool, why did he loiter about the isl- 
and when he should have been on his way to 
Spain?" 

Sweeping down toward them, directly before 
the wind, came the Pbiia. Martin Alonzo Pinzon 
was not really a bad man at heart, and no doubt 
had already repented his attempted desertion. 

"I must speak with your brother," said Colum- 
bus to Vincent Pinzon. 

" "We can't do it here, admiral, for the wind is 
too adverse and obstinate. But there is a bay a 
little west of Monte Christi, in which you can 
anchor in safety." 

" We will put back there, and signal the Pinta 
to follow." 

The signal was given, and the Pinta rounded to 
and followed the Nina back to the little bay, where 
both vessels dropped anchor, and Martin Alonzo 
Pinzon came aboard the Nina. He tried to look 
composed, but the effort was a failure ; his coun- 
tenance fell, and the man, naturally great and good, 
displayed his confusion. 

" You demand an explanation of my abandon- 
ment of the squadron, I suppose? " asked Pinzon, 
blushing deeply. 

" Yes. I suppose you have a good excuse." 



240 COLUMBIA. 

''I have. I was compelled, from the severe 
stress of weather, to part company, and have ever 
since been seeking to find you." 

Columbus listened passively but dubiously to bis 
apologies, and the suspicions he had entertained 
were subsequently warranted, by information given 
him by one of the sailors. While Pinzon was en- 
gaged with his brother, Columbus took the sailor 
to his cabin and asked : 

" Why did your captain desert us? " 

The sailor looked uneasily about, and, toying 
with his cap, answered : 

" He is my captain." 

" But I am your admiral. Why did he part 
company with us ? " 

" One of the Indians aboard told him of large 
quantities of gold in a region to eastward. And 
his ship being the best sailor, he worked to wind- 
ward when others were obliged to put back." 

"Did he find the golden region?" 

"No, admiral; for ten days he was entangled 
among some small islands, but was at last guided 
to Hispaniola, where he remained three weeks 
trading with the Indians." 

" What was the traffic ? " 

"Gold. He traded trinkets for gold, which he 
got in large quantities. One-half he kept, and one- 
half divided among the crew to secure their fidelity 
and secrecy." 



DESERTED— THE STORM. 241 

" And where was he going when sighted ? " 

"I don't know, hut T believe he intended to 
return to Spain." 

Cautioning the sailor not to mention the inter- 
view, Columbus dismissed him. The admiral 
repressed his indignation at the flagrant breach of 
duty, and mentioned the matter to no one save 
Hernando. It was policy, perhaps, to make no 
open war upon Pinzon during the voyage, for he 
had a powerful party of relatives and townsmen 
aboard the armament. To such a degree v^^as his 
confidence in his confederates impaired, that Co- 
lumbus resolved to return to Spain at once, while 
under more favorable circumstances he might 
have been tempted to explore the coast in the 
hope of freighting his ship with treasure. 

Martin Alonzo and his brother Vincent had 
meanwhile been engaged in a long serious con- 
versation in the forward part of the ship. As 
Martin Alonzo turned about to quit the deck, 
some one touched his arm, and he recognized the 
sailor Miguel at a glance. 

"Well, what will you?" began Martin Alonzo. 

" Captain — great captain, can you vouchsafe a 
word with me ? " 

Pinzon gave his tempter a steady gaze. Had 

he possessed the power to say, " Get thee behind 

me, Satan," it would have saved him from ruin, 

disgrace, disappointment, and death ; but great as 

16 



'242 COLUMBIA. 

Martin Aloiizo Pinzou was, lio had his \vc>akiioss. 
He listened. 

"It's not 1<M> late vot," his evil o;eniiis whis- 
pered. '' Your ship is a superior sailor, and would 
soou distance the admiral. Is it not rii>ht that 
you should save your vessel and crew, and that 
someone sliould live to give a report to the sov- 
ereigns ? " 

The devil speaks honeyed words with an oily 
tongue, is charged with argument so plausible that 
no one can dispute it, and but for the small voice 
of conscience, reason would be swayed like a reed 
in a wind-storm. 

Columbus went with Pinzon back to the coast 
where he had been trading, to which \\c gave 
the name of Rio de Gracia. Hernando went on 
shore with some interpreters to talk with the 
Indians. On his return, he said: 

"Admiral, the natives nuike complaint that 
Captain Pinzon has carried off two girls and four 
men, who are yet on his vessel." 

"Can this be true? " the admiral asked, hardly 
prepared to believe that one in whom ho had 
reposed such great confidence could be guilty of 
such an act. 

"They say it, and we can easily ascertain." 

"Yes — I will u"o aboard at once. Come with 



11 

me. 



They went aboard the Pinfa, and as soon as 




WHAT DO YOf 



I'UOPOSE nOINO WITH TllEM?" "TAKE THEM TO SPAI.V 
AND SELL THEM AS SLAVES." 



DESERT KD— THE STORM. 248 

Colmnbiis liiul gained tin; deck, he tiirued to 
Mai'tin Alonzo, and asked: 

" Have you four men and two girl natives pris- 
oners on board your ship ? " 

" I have," was the answer, 

" What do you propose doing with them ? " 

" Take them to Spain and sell them as slaves." 

" You cannot." 

"Why?" 

"I forbid it, and demand their release." 

The dumfounded Pinzon muttered something 
about their being prisoners of conquest. 

" I will have no people forcibly taken from 
the natives with whom we are on the most friendly 
relations. They must be released." 

" You have natives aboard your ship." 

" I have, but they go willingly, and are not to 
be sold as slaves." 

After many high words, Columbus at last had 
his way, and the prisoners were released, loaded 
down with presents, and sent on shore. Again 
they weighed anchor, and coasted the island until 
they came to the high and beautiful headland to 
which Columbus gave the name of Capo del 
Bnamorado, or Lovers' Cape, to-day known as 
Cape Cabron. A little beyond this they came to 
a gulf about ten miles wide, and extending far 
inland. 

" Let us land," said Ilcrnando to the admiral. 



2-t-i COLUMBIA. 

I see people on shore, who nro quite dilTereut 
from any with whom we have heretofore met. 
Perehance they may be the warlike Caribs, who 
have my father a prisoner." 

On landing, they found the natives the opposite 
of the gentle and pacilie people whom they had 
heretofore met in the New World, They were 
ferocious looking creatures, hideously painted, 
with their long hair tied behind, and decorated 
with the feathers of parrots and other birds of 
gaudy plumage. Some were armed with war- 
clubs, others had bows of the length of those used 
by English archers, and slender reeds pointed with 
hard wood, stone, bone, or the tooth of a fish for 
arrows. Their swords were of palm-wood, as harei 
and heavy as iron, and capable of cleaving the 
skull at a single blow. 

Hernando told the interpreter to ask them if 
thev had a white slave among them, but he was 
either not understood, or these strange, wild peo- 
ple cared not to answer, and the lad turned away 
with a sigh. The Spaniards bought two of their 
bows and some arrows to take to Spain, and one 
warrior was even induced to go on ship-board. 

Columbus believed these people were the Car- 
ibs' so often spoken of by the natives; but when 
asked if they were, the warrior pointed beyond to 
the east, where lay the Caribbean, and mentioned 
the island of Mantiuiuo. 



DEHEnrKD-TllK HTOHM. 245 

" That is tFio JKland moritione/l by Marco Polo," 
said ColurnbuK. "Tli': in habitants arc women, 
the men living on another inland, and once a year 
visit the island of the Amazons. All male children 
are sent to the island of men, and females kept by 
the Amazons." 

This myth was only anotlier of the mistakes of 
Columbus. Having regaled the warrior and made 
liim numerous presents, Columbus ordered him to 
be put in the boat and taken ashore. 

" His companions are already growing uneasy," 
said Columbus, "and arc watching us even now 
from the woods. You had better go well armed." 

Ilernando sitting in the bow of the boat, with 
the warrior at his side, saw over fifty of the sav- 
ages lurking in the woods, with bows, arrows, 
war-clubs, and javelins. 

"^i'here's danger," he whispered to his com- 
panions. 

The warrior arose and spoke to his companions, 
and they immediately laid down their weapons and 
came to meet the Spaniards. Ilernando had in- 
structions to purchase a few more of their weap- 
ons, and as soon as the Indians had gathered 
about them, he proposed to trade for some. They 
had parted with two bows, when suddenly one, 
who seemed a chief, gave utterance to a war-cry. 
In a nifjment every savage ran to his weapons. 

"Look, look! they are going to fight!" cried 



246 COLUMBIA. 

Hernando, placing' liis arquebus and ainiiiio- it. 
But having no slovv-niatt'li light, and not having 
time to get one, he seized his cross-bow and. pro- 
ceeded to wind it up with a double crank. The 
savages returned with cords as if to bind the 
Spaniards, 

Hernando's companions were not one whit 
behind him, and three or four cross-bows sent 
bolts flying among the natives. The lad hit a 
savage in the right shoulder, another was wounded 
in the arm, and they all fled. 

" Pursue them, cut them dowm ! " cried the angry 
sailors, one of whom had been slightly bruised by 
a javelin striking his cuirass. 

" Hold ! Don't pursue them ! " cried Hernando, 
who commanded the boat. " We have wounded 
two and jnit all to flight ; that is sufficient. We 
will now return to the caravel." 

This was the first encounter between the white 
men of the Old World and savages of the New. 
Columbus was grieved to see all his exertions to 
maintain an amicable intercourse in vain. He 
consoled himself, however, that if these were 
Caribs or frontier Indians of a warlike character, 
they would be inspired with a dread of the force 
and weapons of the white man, and deterred from 
molesting the little garrison at Fort Nativity. 
They were in fact a bold, hardy race, inhabiting 
a mountainous district called Ciguay, extending 



DESERTED— THE STORM. 247 

five and twenty leagues along the coast, and sev- 
eral leagues into the interior. They differed in 
language, look, and manner from the other natives 
of the island, possessing the rude but independent 
and vigorous character of mountaineers. 

The day after the skirmish a multitude of the 
natives appeared on the beach, and the admiral 
sent a boat-load of well-armed sailors to meet 
them, and learn if they still entertained feelings of 
hostility. Their conduct was full of freedom and 
confidence, evincing neither fear nor enmity. The 
cacique who ruled over the neighboring country 
was on shore; he sent to the boat a string of 
beads formed of small, hard shells, which Colum- 
bus understood to bo a token and assurance of 
amity. The white men were not yet fully aware 
of the meaning of this symbol — the wampum belt 
— the pledge of peace, held sacred among all the 
Indians of the New World. 

Columbus named this gulf Gulfo de las Flechas^ 
or the Gulf of Arrows, it being the place where 
the first encounter had occurred, and arrows being 
the chief weapons used ; but the name has been 
changed, and to-day it is known as the Gulf of 
Samana. An hour before daylight, on January 
the 16th, 1493, taking advantage of a light and 
favorable wind, the Spanish vessels took their 
departure. 

Columbus first steered to the northeast, in which 



248 COLUMBIA. 

direction the young Indians with them assured 
him he would find the island of the Caribs and 
that of Mantinino, the abode of the Amazons; it 
being the admiral's desire to take several of the 
natives of each to present to the sovereigns of 
Aragon and Castile. After sailing about sixteen 
leagues, the Indian guides changed and pointed 
southeast, toward Porto Kico, which was probably 
known to the natives as the island of Carib. But 
before they had gone two leagues on the new 
course, a favorable breeze for the return to Spain 
sprang up, and Columbus determined to take ad- 
vantage of it, so he at once made sail for home. 

" You must keep us company on our return," 
was the ordei; of Columbus to the commander of 
the Pinta. 

Though he assured him he would, the admiral 
had begun to lose faith not only in him, but in 
his brother and the pilots. Great profits and 
honors were to be reaped, and the Pinzons were 
human ; they possessed their jealousies and envy, 
and it was but natural that they should become 
moody over the reflections that, but for their aid, 
this man would never have earned his glory. 

Columbus had so often found the Pinzons, the 
pilots, and Miguel the mutineer, engaged in secret 
whispered consultatious, that he had come to fear 
the worst. 

The trade winds, which had been favorable on 



DE8EBTED~THE STORM. 249 

the voyage out, were equally adverse on their 
return. The promising breeze soon died away, 
and throughout the remainder of January light 
winds from the east prevailed, which prevented 
any very great progress. The foremast of the 
Pinta had been sprung, so she could carry but 
little sail, which detained them. The weather 
was mild and pleasant, and the sea so calm that 
the Indians whom they were taking to Spain fre- 
quently plunged into the water and swam about 
the ships. They killed several tunny fish and one 
large shark, the former adding considerable to 
their low stock of provisions. 

Besides keeping a careful reckoning, Columbus 
was a vigilant and careful observer of those indi- 
cations furnished by the sea, air, and sky. The 
fate of himself, crew, and ships, in that unknown 
region which he had traversed, often depended on 
these observations. On the 10th of February, 
Vincent Yanez Pinzon, and the pilots Euiz and 
Bartolomeo Roldon, who were on board the 
admiral's ship, examined the charts, and compared 
the reckonings, to determine their situation, but 
could come to no agreement. 

" Let us confer with the admiral," said Pinzon. 

The others assented, and Columbus was waited 
upon. When he had their account of the reckon- 
ing, he said to himself: 

" Both are wrong. They think they are one 



250 COLUMBIA. 

hundred and fifty leagues nearer Spain than they 
are, and in the latitude of Madeira; whereas I 
know we are nearly in the direction of the 
Azores." 

He listened to them, but gave them no informa- 
tion calculated to enligliten them. When they 
were gone from his cabin, he turned to Hernando 
and said : 

" They are five hundred miles off the true reck- 
oning. The suppression of the true calculation 
going out is of great advantage to us, my lad." 

" Why did you not tell them all, and give them 
the true reckoning?" 

"My lad, they would then be as wise as I, 
while I prefer to leave them in error, and would 
rather add to their perplexity than clear the mat- 
ter up for them." 

" Why do thus, admiral ? " 

" The}' will have but a confused idea of the 
voyage, at best, and I doubt if any of them could 
return. I alone will possess a clear knowledge of 
the route. There is so much treachery in the 
world, that I have learned it is best to keep my 
own secrets." 

This was a lesson of wisdom and sagacity which 
Hernando never forgot. On the 12th of Febru- 
ary, as they were flattering themselves that they 
would soon reach the land, which many had al- 
most given up all hope of ever beholding again, 



DESERTED— THE STORM. £51 

tlie wind rose and the sea ran liigb, tbongb they 
still kept their eastward course. On the following 
day, after sunset, the wind and swell increased, and 
flashes of lightning to the northeast were to the 
admiral signals of an approaching storm. 

Hernando stood on deck by the side of Colum- 
bus, trusting in him more as a father than his 
superior officer. 

"We are going to have a tempest which will try 
our crazy vessels to their utmost," said the ad- 
miral. " Be always prepared to die, for life requires 
no preparation." 

"I trust, admiral, that I am prepared for any 
ordeal," the lad bravely answered, " and if death 
comes, that I may not shrink from it. One favor 
I crave." 

"What is it?" 

"Let me stay at your side." 

"It is granted." 

" Then I am ready for storm and shipwreck." 

The scene was grand and imposing — one calcu- 
lated to strike the beholder with awe as well as 
admiration. It was terrible. The black, darken- 
ing heavens, the world of angry, leaping waters, 
and air filled with shrieking wind. Every billow, 
which gathered force and rose in its might in 
their wake, came roaring on like some furious 
monster determined on their destruction, until it 
broke in crested splendor over the stern of their 



252 COLUMl^IA. 

frail craft, driving it on beam-ends. Tbe whole 
surface was a white sheet of foam, filled with deep, 
yawning pits, and black, unfathomable chasms. 
The innumerable white flakes driven horizontally 
even to the very decks of the vessels looked like 
snow issuing from the bosom of the ocean. The 
appearance of the horizon portended a lasting 
tempest; the sky and water seemed blended to- 
gether. Thick masses of clouds of frightful shape 
swept across the zenith with the swiftness of birds, 
while others appeared motionless as columns of 
stone. Not a single spot of blue sky could be dis- 
cerned in the whole firmament, and a pale yellow 
gleam lighted up all objects of the sea and the 
skies. 

On the morning of the 14th there was a tran- 
sient lull, and they made a little sail ; but just as 
hope began to once more enter the breast of the 
despondent, the wind again rose from the south 
with redoubled fury and raged throughout the day, 
increasing in violence as night approached, while 
the vessels rocked terribl}' in the cross-sea, the 
broken waves of which threatened to overwhelm 
them. 

For three days they just kept sail enough to run 
ahead of the waves, and prevent foundering ; but 
the tempest still augmenting, they were obliged to 
scud before the wind. In the darkness of night 
the Pinia was lost sight of, and the admiral kept 



DESERTED— TUE STORM. 253 

as much as possible to the northeast, to approach 
the coast of Spain ; and made signal lights at the 
masthead, for the Pinta to do the same, and keep 
in company with him. From the weakness of her 
foremast, Martin Alonzo claimed he was compelled 
to scud before the wind, directly north. For some 
time the Pinta answered the signals of Columbus, 
but anon her lights gleamed more and more dis- 
tant, until they passed out in gloom and darkness. 
Had she been swallowed up in the ocean, or was 
the Pinta in reality deserting Columbus in his sore 
distress? When day dawned, Columbus, who had 
passed a sleepless night, swept the frightful waste 
.of broken waves, lashed into a fury by the gale, in 
vain, for the Pinta. 

"I fear she has gone down," he sighed. His 
words fell on the ears of Miguel at his side, and 
the fiend, uttering a smothered curse, added under 
his breath : 

" It serves him right. Why didn't the fool go 
to Spain weeks ago ? " 

The sun rose and the wind and waves rose with 
it, and through the dreary day the almost helpless 
bark was driven along by the fury of the tem- 
pest. As evening approached Columbus mus- 
tered the crew in tlie forward })art of the ship and 
said: 

" All human skill is baffled and confounded by 
the warring elements, and there alone remains to 



254 COL UMBIA. 

US to propitiate Heaven by solemn vows and acts 
of penance. Take a number of beans, equal the 
number of persons on board, and cut the cross on 
one, and put them all in a cap ; and then let each 
of the crew make a vow, that, should he draw the 
marked bean, he will make a pilgrimage to the 
shrine of Santa Maria do Gruadalupe, bearing a 
wax taper of five pounds weight." 

The crew all assented, and each made tbe vow. 
The admiral was first to put in his hand, and the 
lot fell on him. Holding the marked bean in his 
hand, he solemnly said: 

"From this moment I shall consider myself a 
pilgrim, bound to perform the vow." 

As the storm still raged, a second lot was cast 
in the same manner, for a pilgrimage to the chapel 
of our Lady of Loretto, which fell upon a sailor 
named Pedro de Vilhi, and Columbus at once 
agreed to bear the expenses of the journey. A 
third lot was also drawn for a pilgrimage to Santa 
Clara de Moguer to perform a solemn mass, and 
watch all night in the chapel, and this also fell on 
Columbus. 

Columbus feared that the Pinta had gone down, 
more than he feared that he was deserted. Should 
his own feeble bark perish, his great discoveries 
would be lost, swallowed up in the ocean. The 
storm raged still more furious than before. 

" Why not write out your discoveries, put the 



DESERTED— THE STORM. 255 

account in a cask and throw it overboard? It 
may reach Spain," suggested Hernando. 

It was a bare hope, but Columbus adopted the 
boy's plan. He wrote an account of his voyage 
and discoveries, and of his having taken posses- 
sion of the newly found lands in the name of their 
Catholic majesties. This be sealed, and directed 
to the king and queen; superscribing a promise 
of a thousand ducats to whomsoever should de- 
liver the packet unopened. He then wrapped it 
in waxed cloth, which he j)laced in the centre of 
a cake of wax, and, enclosing the whole in a large 
barrel, threw it into the sea, pretend! n^j^ to his 
crew that he was performing some religious vow. 
Fearing that this memorial would never reach 
the land, he enclosed a copy in a similar maimer 
and placed it on the poop, so that, should the 
caravel be swallowed up by the waves, the barrel 
might float off and survive. 



CHAPTER XV. 

THE ASSASSIN FOILED. 

It is an indication of the great unselfish nature 
of Columbus, that even in the midst of personal 
danger, with death staring him in the face, he 
should think of his discoveries rather than him- 
self. The measures he had taken to a slight 
extent relieved his anxiety, hut he was far more 
relieved when, after heavy showers, there appeared 
at sunset a streak of clear sky in the west, giving 
hopes that the wind was about to shift. These 
hopes were confirmed, for a favorable breeze 
sprang up, though the sea still ran so high that 
there was great danger of being overwhelmed and 
foundered bv the waves. 

On tiie morning of the 15th of February the 
storm had considerably abated, and the sea, which 
had been for days lashed into a fury, was growing 
more and more calm every hour. At dawn of 
day Columbus was on deck, with his young friend 
as usual at his side. 

" Let me go to the maintop, admiral ; my eyes 
are sharp and accustomed to piercing long dis- 
tances." 

" The waves still run high." 



THE ASSASSIN FOILED 257 

"Not so high as yesterday, and I was in tbe 
foretop for hours then." 

" Gro, but have a care ; I would as soon lose my 
own son." 

l^he active boy ran quickly up the rigging, and 
had scarce gained the position, when Rui Garcia, 
a mariner, cried : 

"Land— land, ho!" 

The shout was taken up on deck, and the cry 
of "Land, land! " rang out over the wild waters. 

Poor, weary souls, worn out with long contin- 
ued battling with the tempest, the sailors had 
dropped down on deck to catch a moment's sleep, 
but they now started up with transports of joy, 
at once more gaining sight of the Old World. 

As the sun rose in a cloudless skj^, it revealed 
the land lying east-northeast, directly over the 
prow of the caravel, and the pilots at once began 
to dispute as to what land it was. One said it 
was the island of Madeira ; another, that it was the 
rock of Cintra near Lisbon ; while Columbus, from 
his private reckonings and observations, concluded 
it to be one of the Azores. A nearer approach 
proved it lo be an island; it was but five leagues 
distant, and the voyagers were congratulating 
themselves on the assurance of being speedily 
in port, when the wind veered again to the east- 
northeast, blowing directly from the land, while a 
heavy swell kept rolling from the West. 
17 



258 COLUMBIA. 

"It is too bad to be near land, and unable to 
reach it," siglied Columbus. For two days they 
hovered about the island, always in sight but un- 
able to get in port, either there, or to reach the other 
island of which he caught occasional glimpses 
through the mist and rack of tempest. On the 
evening of the 17th they approached near enough 
the first island discovered to cast anchor, but part- 
ing their cable had to again put to sea, where 
they remained beating about until the following 
morning, when they anchored under shelter of its 
northern side. Columbus had been in such a state 
of agitation for several days that he had scarce 
taken food or sleep. Although suffering from 
rheumatism, he had kept his post on deck, ex- 
posed to the wintry cold, the pelting storm, and 
drenching surges of the sea. On the night of 
the 17th he fell asleep, more from exhaustion 
of nature than tranquillity of mind. Had one- 
tenth the perils and difficulties beset them on 
their outward voyage that they encountered on 
their return, his timid and factious crew would 
have rebelled against the enterprise, thrown him 
in the sea, and returned home. 

The island they had made was St. Mary's, one of 
the southern Azores, and a possession of the crown 
of Portugal. The admiral's trials were not yet 
over. Miguel, one of the first to land, set off to 
find Juan de Castaneda, the governor of St. Mary's, 



THE ASSASSIN FOILED. 259 

and endeavored partly bj truth, but mostly by 
falsehood, to rouse hitn against Columbus. 

On the following morning Columbus reminded 
his people of their vow to perform a pious proces- 
sion at the first place where they should land. 
There was to be seen from the ship, at no great 
distance from the sea, a small hermitage or chapel 
dedicated to the Virgin, and arrangements were 
immediately made for the performance of the rite. 
Three messengers, returning to the village, sent a 
priest to perform mass, and one-half of the crew, 
landing, walked barefooted in their shirts to the 
chapel ; while Columbus with the other half 
awaited their return, to perform a like ceremony. 
At this day, so long after the Reformation and 
enlightenment of mankind, such a ceremony would 
seem nonsensical and bring down the ridicule of 
all Christendom, but at that day it was a solemn 
and earnest ceremony. 

The mariners entered the little chapel, but 
had scarce begun their prayers and thanksgiving, 
when the soldiers and citizens of the village, horse 
and foot, headed by the governor, surrounded the 
hermitage and made all prisoners. Miguel, who 
had been the occasion of the trouble, kept out of 
sight, and his comrades were in ignorance of his 
guilt in the affair. History makes no mention of 
him, and leaves the arrest shrouded in mystery, 
without any cause whatever. Miguel's design was 



260 COLUMBIA. 

the capture and destruction of the admiral and 
Hernando. 

Columbus wae. unable to see the hermitage from 
the deck of the Nifia, owing to an intervening point 
of land, and growing uneasy at the long delay, 
weighed anchor and stood in a little nearer, where 
he could see the shore. The first object that met 
his view was a number of armed horsemen dis- 
mounting and entering a boat. 

" They are coming to us," said the amazed Co- 
lumbus, 

" Yes, Admiral, they intend to fight." 

The hostility of the Portuguese to his enterprise 
at once aroused the suspicions of Columbus, and 
lie ordered his men to arm themselves, and keep 
out of sight, though near at hand to either defend 
the vessel or surprise the boat, as occasion might 
require. As the boat drew nearer, he discovered 
the governor in it. Coming within hailing dis- 
tance, the governor called out to the admiral, and 
asked : 

'• Can I come aboard ? " 

' You can," was the answer. 

" Unmolested ? " 

" Certainly, provided your visit is a peaceable 
one." The boat still remained at a distance, and 
Columbus, unable longer to retain himself, now 
broke forth. 

" Governor Castafieda, where are my men, whom 



THE ASSASSIN FOILED. 261 

I sent ashore to do penance at jour chapel ? Have 
you made them prisoners, and not only wronged 
the Spanish monarchs, but your own sovereigns? " 

"Who are you? " demanded the governor. 

"Christopher Columbus, lord admiral of the 
high seas, viceroy and governor-general of the new 
countries I have discovered," and Columbus, dis- 
played his letters patent sealed with the royal seal 
of Castile. " If you don't release my people and 
send them aboard, you can look for the vengeance 
of Spain." 

Castafleda replied in a vein of contempt : 

" I have no fear of your sovereigns, my lord 
admiral. They have had enough to do to drive 
out the Moors. What I have done has been under 
instructions of my king and sovereign." 

" Then your conduct will provoke a war between 
Spain and Portugal." 

The boat with the governor returned to shore, 
and Columbus, unable to decide on what course 
to pursue, continued to beat around the island 
without gaining any satisfactory information until 
the 22cl, when they returned to their anchorage at 
St. Mary's. A boat bringing off two priests and 
a notary now pulled to the ship. 

"What do you want?" demanded Columbus, 
when they came in hailing distance. 

" We want to see your papers," the notary 
answered. 



262 COLUMBIA. 

" Come aboard and examine them." 

" Will you harm us? " 

"Certainly not." 

With some degree of caution they came aboard 
the caravel, and the notary said : 

'• Governor Castaileda is disposed to render you 
every service he can, if you really sail in service 
of the Spanish sovereigns." 

"There are my papers," answered Columbus, 
and he showed them to the priests and notary, 
who seemed satisfied. On the following day the 
prisoners were liberated, and all, save Miguel, 
came on board. He, no doubt fearing the punish- 
ment he so richly merited, kept aloof from the 
admiral, who was in ignorance of the mischief 
he had accomplished. 

For two days longer the admiral remained at 
St. Mary's, endeavoring to take in wood and 
ballast, but prevented by the heav}^ surf which 
broke on the shore. On the 24th he again set 
sail for Spain, and on the 27th, when within one 
hundred and twenty-five leagues of Cape Vincent, 
again encountered a furious gale. The nearer he 
approached home, the more boisterous grew the 
sea, and he could not help feeling that he was 
being repulsed, as it were, " from the very door 
of the house." The poor, tempest- tossed admiral 
one day said to his young friend : 

"Well may the sacred theologians and sage 



THE ASSASSIN FOILED. 263 

philosophers declare that the terrestrial paradise 
is in the utmost extreraitj of the East, for it is 
the most temperate of regions." 

On the second of March the caravel was struck 
by a squall of wind, which tore off her sails and 
forced them to scud under bare poles. Again 
were they threatened with destruction, and another 
lot was cast for a pilgrimage, barefoot, to the 
shrine of Santa Maria de la Cueva, in Huelva, 
and, as usual, the lot fell on Columbus, 

On the 4th of March, at daybreak, they found 
themselves off the rock of Cintra, at the mouth of 
the Tagus, and much as they had cause to mis- 
trust the Portuguese, Columbus was forced to run 
in for shelter. Accordingly, about three o'clock 
in the afternoon, he anchored opposite to the 
Rastello, to the great joy of the crew, who re- 
turned thanks to God for their escape from so many 
perils. 

Immediately on his arrival, Columbus de- 
spatched a courier to the king and queen of Spain, 
with tidings of his discoveries, and also wrote to 
the king of Portugal, then at Valparaiso, request- 
ing permission to go with his vessel to Lisbon. 
A report had got abroad that the Nina was laden 
with gold, and he felt insecure at Rastello. 

On the following day Columbus was summoned 
on board a Portuguese man-of-war, but he asserted 
his rank and refused to leave his vessel. The 



264 GOL UMBTA. 

captain then came on board the caravel and ten- 
dered his services to Columbus. 

"Admiral," said Hernando, when the captain 
had departed, " I was on shore to-daj, and while 
there saw Miguel." 

" What ! I thought him lost. I have not seen 
him since we left St. Mary's," answered Columbus. 

" He is here ; and I have every reason to believe 
that it is he who is making all these stories about 
"wealth aboard. He means us no good." 

" Watch him, my lad." 

" I will ; he is a villain of the deepest dj^e." 

Columbus received permission to go to Lisbon ; 
also a request to call upon King John. Much as 
he mistrusted the Portuguese king, he dared not 
refuse his royal request. His messenger had 
already gone by an overland route to Spain, and 
be soon hoped for fair weather, to bear his shat- 
tered bark to Palos. He sailed to Lisbon and 
prepared to set out for Valparaiso. 

" Can I accompany you. Admiral ? " asked Her- 
nando. The lad, on account of his ceaseless vigil 
and constant watching, was almost broken down. 
His eyes were sunken, his face pale, with a hec- 
tic flush on his cheek that the admiral thought 
alarming. 

" No, Hernando, you must have rest. The 
weather is rainy and you should not expose your- 
self. I will have attendants." 



THE ASSASSIN FOILED. 265 

On the second daj after his arrival Columbus 
set out for the king's rojal residence, and was met 
bj the principal cavaliers of the monarch's house- 
hold, who came out to meet hira and conduct him 
in great pomp to the palace. 

He saw not a pair of evil ejes watching him, 
nor did he recognize the evil face of Miguel Gan- 
zola, the mutineer. 

" I will slay hira yet," Miguel hissed through his 
teeth. "I began for reward. I will end for hate." 

The admiral was right royally entertained by 
King John, who made minute inquiries about the 
soil, the land, the people and the gold. The king 
was deeply chagrined at having, by his lack of 
faith in Columbus, allowed his rivals to win so rich 
a prize. Some historians claim that the Portu- 
guese were so envious that they determined to put 
Columbus to death. They have doubtless con- 
fused the acts of Miguel, who, as the reader will 
remember, was in the employ of Garcia Estevan 
to assassinate both Columbus and Hernando, with 
the designs of King John. 

One historian says : 

"Seeing the king much perturbed in spirit, 
some even went so far as to propose, as a means 
of impeding the prosecution of these enterprises, 
that Columbus should be assassinated ; declaring 
that he deserved death for attempting to deceive 
and embroil the two nations by his pretended dis- 



266 COLUMBIA. 

coveries. It was suggested that his assassination 
might be accomplished without incurring any 
odium. Advantage might be taken of his lofty 
deportment to pique his pride, provoke him into 
an altercation, and then despatch him, as if in 
casual and honorable encounter." 

Whether King John ever contemplated any 
scheme as dark as the above-mentioned, is ques- 
tionable, and as he has left a fair reputation for 
honor, we will give him the benefit of a doubt. 
Miguel, the hired assassin, may have ingratiated 
himself into the good graces of people of all ranks, 
poisoning their minds against the man he had 
grown to hate, and it was no doubt Miguel's con- 
duct which gave start to the current report, which 
has been handed down in histor3^ Columbus, 
after leaving the king, visited the queen, and then 
set out for Lisbon, hoping soon to return to Palos. 

Hernando Estevan was not unlike Christopher 
Columbus, inasmuch as he was often moved by 
secret impulses. It was an age of superstition, 
and one can not wonder that Hernando was 
moved by his impressions, as well as the admiral. 
Some small, still voice seemed whispering to him 
that Columbus, the man whom he had come to 
love almost as his father, was in danger. This 
impression was caused, no doubt, by the presence 
of the mutineer in Portugal. Miguel had been 
seen in Lisbon and Valparaiso, and, it was thought, 



THE A8SA8Sm FOILED. 267 

that his presence boded no good to the safety and 
welfare of the admiral. 

Columbus had already been detained two or 
three days over the time he should have been gone, 
and Hernando, stealing ashore at night, procured a 
horse, and armed only with his sword and dagger 
set off to find him. Never sallied forth a knight- 
errant with stouter heart or more trusty blade. 
Though young in years, he was old in the science 
of war. Setting out alone, without even a guide, 
he rode over the rough and dangerous road be- 
tween Lisbon and Valparaiso, although night had 
set in before he began his journey. And a dark 
night it was — not a single star was in the heavens 
to give a lambent glow to the blackness. 

Unacquainted with the road as he was, the lad 
pushed boldly on, up hill and down, until became 
to where the road wended its way through a forest. 
He was just thinking that this would be an excel- 
lent spot for an assassin to wavlav an unsusoect- 
ing victim, when the sound of hoofs reached his 
ears. The lad drew rein, when the apj^roaching 
horseman was but a few rods away. From the 
clank of arms he at first supposed him to be a 
soldier; but the awkwardness of the fellow as he 
drew rein and dismounted, dragging his heavy 
matchlock after him, convinced Hernando that 
he was not an expert horseman. The lad rode 
into the bushes, determined to know more of the 



268 COLUMBIA. 

• 

strange horseman. Having become accustomed to 
the darkness, he was enabled to make out the out- 
lines of a thick-set, stoop-shouldered man, whose 
garb was that of a sailor. 

" I know him," the j'outh thought. 

Dismounting, Hernando made his horse fast to 
a tree, and, drawing his long, keen dagger, ho 
crept a little nearer to watch the stranger. There 
was a slight jingling of iron rods as if the stranger 
was setting the rest of his arquebus to get it ready 
for firing, and he saw the glow of a slow-match. 

Then there came on the air the ti-amp of other 
horses. Hernando at once surmised that the 
stranger with the arquebus was an assassin lying 
in wait for his victim, doubtless one of the ad- 
vancing horsemen. Some of the party of horse- 
men bore links which lighted up the road, but 
failed to penetrate the dense wood in which Her- 
nando was watching the man with the arquebus. 
One of the approaching party was at this moment 
heard to say : 

" It can scarce be three leagues to the port, and 
I am anxious, the wind being fair and God willing, 
to sail to-morrow." 

"It's the admiral, and this is an assassin sent 
to slay him," thought the youth. 

Dagger clutched in his hand, with all the ferocity 
and cunning sagacity of a tiger expressed in his 
manner, he crept nearer and nearer to this would- 



TEE ASSASSIN FOILED. 269 

be assassin. The man with the arquebus was 
stooping low, and the glow of the slow-match 
hidden behind his cap revealed his features to the 
lad behind, but not to those in front. 

" Miguel ! " 

The hand that clutched the dagger behind the 
would-be assassin trembled not, and the holder 
crept nearer and nearer. Miguel aimed his gun 
at Columbus, who rode nearest hiAi, and applied 
the match. 

As the flash and report rang on the air some 
one struck the arquebus, and the next instant a 
hand grappled his throat, and a voice hissed in 
his ear : 

'• Coward — murderer — die ! " 

The ball from the arquebus glanced from the 
breastplate of the admiral, producing a shock, but 
no injury. 

Knowing full well with whom he had to deal, 
and having a score of long standing to settle, 
Hernando did not hesitate. The advantage of 
surprise quite overcame the disparagement of age 
and strength. He was quick to strike, and struck 
home. A yell of agony followed the blow, and 
he struck again and again. 

Columbus and his attendants were on their 
return from Valparaiso when they were startled 
by the shot from the forest, and heard the clash 
of steel and sounds of a struggle within the wood. 



270 COLUMBIA. 

" Tiaere is trouble here," cried the admiral, and, 
with his attendants and link-bearers, he pressed 
forward into the wood. Ail was over. There 
was Hernando, with a blood-stained dagger in his 
hand, standing over, a dead body. 



CHAPTER XVI. 

THE EETUEN TO PALOS. 

" Hernando ! " cried the admiral, as the light 
from the blazing torches fell full on the face of 
the youth in the wood by the dead body. 

" It is all over.'' 

" What have you done? " 

" Slain your enemy, put out of the way the man 
who would have assassinated you." 

The overturned, rest, the empty arquebus still 
hot and smoking, the burning match, and naked 
sword in the hand of the dead man, spoke vol- 
umes, and supplied all broken links in the story. 

"Who is he, Hernando?" 

" Your bitterest enemy, Miguel. He came to 
assassinate you, and I slew him." 

" I forbade you leaving the ship," said the ad- 
miral sternly. 

" You did, admiral ; and now that I have saved 
your life I am ready to endure any punishment 
you may choose to inflict." 

What could a man with a great heart like Co- 
lumbus do under such circumstances ? Ere he 
knew it he had the lad clasped in a warm embrace 
— and he was forgiven. 



272 COLUMBIA. 

King John had sent Don Martin de Norona 
and a numerous train of cavaliers to escort Colum- 
bus and his pilot. Don Martin had fallen a short 
distance in the rear of the cavalcade, when the re- 
port of the arquebus startled the sleeping echoes 
of night, and clapping spurs to his horse, he 
reached the spot just as Columbus clasped his 
preserver to his breast. 

" Helloa, admiral, what means this ? " cried Don 
Martin. " Have some of the dogs of robbers dared 
to attack you ? " 

"It's an old enemy, Don Martin." 

"Who is the lad?" 

"My cabin-boy, the companion of many of my 
severest dangers and trials, and the preserver of 
my life." 

" And the man slain ? " 

Columbus then proceeded to explain that he 
was an old enemy, who for some unknown cause 
had sought to thwart his plans and take his life. 
Though he allowed no such hint to escape his 
lips, it was for a while a serious question in the 
mind of Columbus whether the assassin had been 
9,cting on his own account, or in the employ of King 
John. After all, the Portuguese king might only 
be pretending friendship in order to bliud Colum- 
bus and take him unawares. Fearing he might do 
the Portuguese monarch wrong, he determined to 
keep this adventure and his narrow escape a secret. 



THE RETURN TO PAL08. 273 

"It is a singular affair, and I shall report it to 
the sovereign," said Don Martin. 

" I pray you will do nothing of the kind, Don 
Martin." 

'•Why not?" 

"It will only aggravate the king without cause. 
This is only an old enemy slain by my young 
friend, and I pray that no mention ever be made 
of it in Portugal or in Spain." Columbus had 
his way and the affair was kept a secret. 

" What shall we do with the body ? " asked Don 
Martin. 

"Leave it, and some of the peasants will find 
it in the morning and give it Christian burial," 
Columbus answered. 

The finding of a dead body in the wood or 
lonely mountain pass was a common occurrence in 
those days, and occasioned but little comment. 
The cavalcade went to Llandra, where Columbus 
slept until morning, when a servant of the king 
arrived to attend him to tlie frontier, if he pre- 
ferred to return to Spain by land, and to provide 
houses, lodgings, and everything he might stand 
in need of at the royal expense. 

Columbus was pleased with this marked atten- 
tion of favor on the part of the king of Portugal, 
but decided to return in his caravel. 

" Inform your monarch that I am flattered with 
his high degree of attention, but that I prefer, as 



274 COLUMBIA. 

the wind is favorable, to return in one of the shat- 
tered vessels in wliich I left last year." When the 
royal messenger was gone, Columbus thought : " I 
have done King John wrong to even suspect him." 

" How soon will you put back into Palos ? " 
Hernando asked, when they were once more on 
the deck of the Nina. 

" At once." 

"Heaven be praised ! " 

'• Are you so anxious to return, my lad ? " 

" I am," the youth answered. " It seems that 
we spent a lifetime in that new world. Doubtless 
many stories have gone back to Palos ; and — and 
I know that two are anxiously scanning the ocean 
day by day, waiting, watching, and hoping for 
my return. One is still young, though sad, and 
the other has grown old with years and grief." 

"We sail in the morning, and in two days, 
Heaven willing it, we'll reach the port of Palos," 
Columbus answered. 

Next day was the 13th of March, 1493, and at 
daybreak the Nina weighed anchor, unfurled her 
sails to the breeze, and sailed away for Palos. At 
early daylight Hernando was awake and on deck 
at the side of the admiral, whose own great heart 
was beating high with hope. When it became 
known throughout the vessel that at last, after so 
many delays, they had in reality set out on their 
return to Palos, they broke forth in transports. 



THE RETURN TO PA LOS. 275 

The praises of the saints were sung, and such 
joy was never known on shipboard. Standing at 
the bow of the vessel, wrapped iu solemn thought 
and deep happiness as strong as the current of 
a might J river, was the youth whose fortunes 
have been so strangely blended with the admiral. 
Though young in years he is a man in thought. 

Bending over, be watched the sharp prow cleav- 
ing the water, and thanked Heaven for every 
favorable breeze. The air was raw and sharp, 
and the admiral expostulated with him and urged 
him to go below and take some rest, 

"I cannot rest, my lord, when every second 
brings me nearer home. Are any landmarks 
familiar along the way?" he asked. 

"Many; our pilots feel safe, and know every 
inch of ground. They are at home in these 
waters." 

It was late at niglit when the admiral induced 
Hernando to retire, but at daylight next morn- 
ing he was again at his post, watching the sharp 
prow cleave the waters and rejoicing that they 
were ra'pidly nearing their harbor of safety. The 
day was cloudy for most of the time and a heavy 
fog prevailed, which, aided by contrary winds, 
made the voyage difficult and perilous. 

"Still at your post," said the admiral, joining 
Hernando. 

" Yes, admiral ; I feel that I cannot leave it. 



276 COLUMBIA 

I must be first to see the port as I was last. I left 
them more than half a year ago standing there, 
straining their tear-stained eyes to watch my de- 
parture. Will I find them awaiting my return ? " 

"I trust you may." 

" And yet we may never reach Palos, for it 
seems as if the fiends and furies of the tempest 
contend with us at our very doors. All may yet 
be lost." 

" No; I have provided against that," Columbus 
answered. "Even though my ship should sink 
and we all go down with her, I have sent an 
account of the voyage and my discoveries to the 
king and queen of Spain, so that they will not be 
lost." 

How strange it seems to a student of history 
that, despite all his precaution to prevent his 
honors being stolen, Columbus should be robbed 
of the honor of his glorious discovery by one then 
practically unknown to the world, and that the 
land which should have borne his name was to be 
christened by a stranger. 

The 15th of March dawned and found every 
sailor on deck and wide-awake. The enthusiasm 
and excitement of the return were scarce less than 
the morning of the first landing in the new world. 
At sunrise tbey safely landed at the bar of Saltes, 
and thundering cannon announced their return to 
the little seaport town. 



THE RETURN TO PALOS. 277 

The NiTia found the wind contrary, yet by skilful 
management they worked her gradually into port. 

The triumphant return of Columbus was a pro- 
digious event in the history of Palos, where every- 
body was more or less interested in the fate of the 
expedition. The most important and wealthy 
sea-captains of the place had engaged in it, and 
scarcely a family but had some relative or friend 
among the navigators. The departure of the ships 
on what appeared to be a chimerical and desperate 
cruise had spread dismay and gloom over the 
place; and the storms which had raged through- 
out the winter had greatly heightened the public 
despondency. The friends who had departed on 
the voyage were mourned as lost, imagination 
lending mysterious horrors to their fate; pictur- 
ing them as driven about over wild and desert 
wastes of shoreless water, or perishing amid 
mountains of stone, whirlpools of treacherous 
quick-sands, or a prey to those monsters of the 
deep with which the credulity of the time peopled 
every distant and unknown sea. Death under 
any defined or ordinary form did not begin to 
compare with such an awful fate. 

Now, what means that thundering gun at sea? 
and look, a sail approaches. Old sailors, whose 
weather-beaten eyes had long grown accustomed 
to scanning the ocean, seized glasses, and swept 
the waters. 



278 COLUMBIA. 

" It's the iWTta, tlie NiTia ! " cried an old sailor, 
who had a son on board the vessel. The glad 
cry was taken up from street to street, and shouts 
of joy made the welkin ring. The whole com- 
munity seemed wild. Bells were rung, cannon 
and arquebus fired, shops closed, all business 
suspended, and for a time there was nothing but 
tumult and hurrv. By chance, Granddame Se- 
nora Doria and Christina were in the village, 
and hearing the tumult, rushed into the street to 
inquire the cause. 

" Joy, joy, joy ! " shouted a pailor hurrying by. 
" The ship which was lost is returned. One of 
the long missing Columbus caravels is in port." 

" Granddame, granddame, he may be aboard," 
cried the sefiorita, her eyes beaming with mild, 
inexpressible hope and expectation. After weary 
months of waiting, they had given up all hope of 
ever seeing the youth again ; now that one of the 
ships of the little fleet was returning, and they 
felt a hope that he might be aboard, it seemed as 
if they were about to receive a visit from the 
dead. They went with the multitude down to 
the quay, to watch the incoming vessel. 

Standing erect on the cross-piece of the bowsprit, 
leaning forward, trying to pierce the distance and 
make out the features of those on shore, was Her- 
nando Estevan. Could this be tru», was it a real- 
ity, or only a pleasant dream from which he would 




STANDING ON THE CROSS-PIECE OF THK HOWSPKIT, LEANING FOliWARD 

TRYING TO PIERCE THE DISTANCE AND MAKE OUT THE FEATURES 

OF THOSE ON SHORE, WAS HERNANDO ESTEVAN. 



THE RETURN TO PALOS. 279 

awake? Were they really gliding into the peace- 
ful harbor of Palos, crowned with glory, or only 
dreaming? Columbus was also moved by sensa- 
tions as strange as Hernando. Had he really 
found a new world, or was it only the fantasy of 
a diseased brain, brought on by long dwelling on 
the mysterious subject? Columbus for the first 
time began to almost doubt his own sanity. 
Never had his terrible task seemed so difficult and 
impossible before. He was roused from his 
strange reverie by hearing a shout : 

"She's there, she's there ; hurrah, hurrah!" 
And leaning from the fore-rigging of the ship, 
Hernando waved his cap in the air, 

A joyous shout came in response from land, a 
sweet girlish voice reached his ears, and a bright 
blue turban, such as was worn by the young An- 
dalusiau women of the period, was waved in the 
air, 

" Tell me, Christina, do you see him ? My 
eyes are growing dim and I caimot see," said an 
aged senora at the side of a beautiful senorita. 

"Behold! some one mounts the fore-rigging; 
see, he stops, he waves his cap. 'Tis he, 'tis he; 
'tis Hernando, and he sees us ! " 

Then the multitude crowded to the water's 
edge to get a glimpse of the sailors on deck, and 
there was a crowding forward of those on deck 
to see those on shore. They almost pushed Her- 



280 COLUMBIA. 

nando into the water. Friends, wives, parents, 
and children were waiting' to receive loved ones, 
and equal anxiety was expressed by all. Every- 
body was anxious to know the fate of a relative 
oi a friend, and all eager to learn the full particu- 
lars of such a wonderful voyage. 

" Stand back, let me be first to land ! " cried 
Columbus, intending that the return should be as 
imposing as the departure had been. But there 
was one who heard him not. The Nma swept 
into port, and, with anxious heart beating high, 
Hernando was ready to leap ashore. Anchor was 
dropped, boats lowered, and one of the first to 
enter was Hernando. For once he was deaf to the 
command of the admiral, and sprang on shore 
before the boat touched the beach. While the 
admiral was landing in imposing ceremony, the 
youth was embracing his grand-dame and Chris- 
tina. 

" Have you come, oh, have you come at last ? " 
the coy little maiden cried, the proud blood leap- 
ing to her noble brow. The joy of knowing he 
was safe, of holding his hand once more, seemed 
too great to be real. 

When Columbus landed, the multitude thronged 
to see and welcome him, and a grand procession 
was formed to the principal church, to return 
thanks to God for so signal a discovery made by 
the people of that place, forgetting, in their exul- 



THE RETURN TO PALOS. 281 

tation, the thousand obstacles they had thrown in 
the way of the enterprise. 

And Columbus, who a few months before was 
derided as a beggar, a madman, and an adven- 
turer, was now hailed with shouts and acclama- 
tions everywhere he went. Joy and gladness 
filled the quiet little village to overflowing. Never 
in the history of the world has Palos known such 
a day as the 15th of March, 1493, and the hero of 
the hour was he who not long before had arrived 
there a poor pedestrian, asking bread and water 
for his child companion at the gate of a convent. 

As soon as the ceremonies at the church were 
over, Columbus asked the alcalde of Palos where 
the court was. 

"At Barcelona," was the answer, 

" I believe I will sail for the city at once." 

"I pray 3'ou, my lord, go by land; it is surely 
safer, and, after all you have suffered by an angry 
sea, I would think you would be unwilling to 
risk your life on the water until you have im- 
parted your discoveries to the king and queen." 

" A sailor's home is on the wave." 

" Not when his life is of such value to the 
world as yours. After all the dangers and dis- 
asters you have experienced on the seas, I trust 
you will change your resolution and proceed by 
land." 

Hernando Estevan joined his entreaties to the 



282 COLUMBIA. 

others, and tbe admiral was persuaded to make 
the journey bv land. He despatched a letter to 
tbe king and queen, informing them of his arrival, 
and made arrangements to depart next day for 
Seville to await their orders. 

No sooner were the first emotions of the meet- 
ing between Hernando, Christina, and the grand- 
dame over, than the senora asked : 

" Did you find your father? " 

" No," he answered, sadly. 

"Nor learn his fate?" 

" I learned nothing of him." Then he told how 
they had found many tribes of strange, wild'peo- 
ple, but none knew aught of his father. " I fear 
the ship in which he sailed went down with him." 

Then the grand-dame became silent, and Chris- 
tina stole to the side of her foster-brother, coyly 
entwined an arm about his neck, and whispered : 

"Don't be downcast, don't be disconsolate. I 
have lost my parents, but so long as you are with 
me I will not complain." 

"Nor will I; we have each other." The right- 
eous old grand-dame, who had been watching the 
childi'en, exclaimed : 

"Heaven has decreed them for each other; 
God is kind, even when chastening." 

Id the midst of general rejoicing throughout 
the village, a sailor went to Columbus and said : 

" Admiral, behold, another comes. See, the 



THE RETURN TO PA LOS. 283 

Pinta^ commanded by Martin Alonzo Pinzon, is 
now entering the river,". 

Columbus left the public-liouse where he was 
resting and hurried to the quay. 

" The fellow is right," he said, as his eyes fell 
on a ship dropping anchor in the harbor. " It is 
the Pinta which I thought lost, but which basely 
deserted me." Columbus ordered a boat for the 
purpose of going to meet Pinzon, but he put 
ashore further up the bay, and, filled with shame, 
chagrin, and confusion, hid himself from Colum- 
bus. 

After separating from the AYfia, the Pinia was 
driven before the gale into the Bay of Biscay, and 
made the port of Bayonne. Having been informed 
by Miguel Gonzola that he would assassinate Co- 
lumbus should he survive the storm, and suppos- 
ing him out of his way, Pinzon wrote from this 
port to the sovereigns, giving information of the 
discoveries he had made, requesting permission to 
come to court and communicate the particulars in 
person. As soon as the weather had permitted, 
he again set sail, anticipating a triumphant recep- 
tion in his native port of Palos. On entering the 
harbor he beheld the vessel of the admiral riding 
at anchor, while the very skies, hills, and moun- 
tains rang with enthusiasm. 

"Miguel has failed — and — and — I am lost!" 
gasped Martin Alonzo Pinzon. 



284 COLUMBIA. 

His heart died within him. 

It is said by some historians that Martin Alonzo 
Pinzon feared to meet CoJumbus in this hoar of 
his triumph lest he should put him under arrest 
for his desertion on the coast of Cuba,' but he was 
a man of too much resolution and courage to in- 
dulge tn any such fear. It is more probable that 
consciousness of his misconduct at having become 
a pliant tool in the hands of such a villain as 
Miguel Gonzola made him unwilling to go before 
the public in the midst of their enthusiasm for 
Columbus, and he no doubt sickened at the hon- 
ors heaped on a man whose superiority he had 
been so unwilling to acknowledge. Therefore he 
got in his lx)at, was privatelj^ landed, and kept out 
of sight until he heard oi: the admiral's departure. 
He then returned to his home, broken in health 
and deeply dejected, considering all the honors 
heaped on Columbus as so mam^ reproaches upon 
himself. He waited long and anxiously for the 
answer from his sovereigns. When it came it 
proved to be the last straw to crush his hopes, for 
it was full of reproaches, and forbade him appear- 
ing in court. The anguish of his feelings gave 
virulence to his bodily malady, and in a few days 
he died, a victim to deep chagrin. 

Martin Alonzo Pinzon was, perhaps, a better 
man than he will ever get credit for being. Like 
many another great man, his ambition proved his 



THE RETURN TO PA LOS. 285 

ruin. In considering him, let us charitably gaze 
on the picture which represents the Martin Alonzo 
Pinzon of years before, when life was full of 
promise, and ambition in her golden car had not 
swung down the path of time, dragging her own 
shadow at the wheel. 



CHAPTER XVir. 

A LESSON FROM AN EGG. 

Though urged to remain at Palos, where every 
honor in the power of the people was tendered 
him, the admiral was too anxious to present him- 
self to the sovereigns to protract his stay. He 
selected to take with him six of the natives brought 
from the new world, and specimens of the multi- 
farious products of the newly discovered regions. 

Early next morning after his arrival Hernando 
called on the admiral. He came early, and the 
servant said Columbus was sleeping; so Hernando 
was about to go away, when the admiral, from 
his bed-chamber, called him : 

" Hernando, my lad, don't go." 

"Are you awake, admiral? " 

" I awoke just this moment. Come in ; I wish 
to converse with you." 

Columbus was still in bed when Hernando en- 
tered. The youth had grown more diffident, for 
he realized, since he had been an eye-witness to 
the honors, the greatness of the man. He stood 
with his cap in his hand, and his face overwhelmed 
with confusion. 

'' To what am I indebted for this early morning 



A LESSON FROM AN EGG. 287 

call ? I know full well you would not have called 
at this hour but that you had something to com- 
municate." 

" I have come to make a request, my lord," an- 
swered Hernando. 

"What is it?" 

" I learned that you will set out to-day for 
Seville to await the summons to the court of the 
king and queen at Barcelona." 

" Such is my intention." 

" Can I accompany you ? " 

"Would you leave your friends so soon? " 

" I do not wish to separate from them, but I — 
I have been with you through your trials, I should 
like to be a witness to your crowning triumph." 

" Your wish shall be granted, and thes.e poor 
honors which I have won shall be shared with 
every deserving follower." 

" Do you start at an early hour? " 

"We do." 

He quitted the bed-chamber of the admiral, and 
went to his grand-dame and Christina to acquaint 
them with his intention to depart with the admiral 
and make a few necessary preparations for the 
journey. 

Hernando's costume was scarce inferior to the 
admiral's, and well suited for so grand an occasion. 
Both were elegantly mounted with silver trappings, 
and, accompanied by a guard of honor headed by a 



288 COLUMBIA. 

sleek, good-natured monk, mounted on a sleek, fat 
mule, set out for Seville. The native islanders 
who accompanied them were arrayed in their 
simple, barbaric costume, and in passing through 
towns and villages, were decorated with gaj 
plumage, collars, bracelets, and other ornaments 
of gold rudely fashioned ; he also exhibited con- 
siderable quantities of the same metal in dust or 
in crude masses, and numerous vegetable exotics 
possessed of aromatic or medicinal virtues, and 
several kinds of animals and birds unknown to 
Europe ; the gaudy plumage of the latter gave a 
brilliant effect to the pageant. 

No procession has ever created such intense 
excitement, News o^ the return of the explorer, 
and of his journey to k?eville, from thence to Bar- 
celona, spread like wild-fire, and men quitted their 
ordinary pursuits and journeyed for miles to see 
the wonders from another and an unknown world. 
Women and children, too, hastened to throng the 
roads, and gaze on the strange people from that 
far-off land. The admiral's progress through the 
the country was everywhere impeded by the mul- 
titude thronging forth to gaze at the extraordi- 
nary spectacle, and more than extraordinary man, 
who, in the emphatic language of the time, which 
from its familiarity has now lost its force, first 
revealed the existence of a " new world." 

It was nearly noon before they came in sight of 



A LESSON FROM AN EOG. 289 

the busy and populous city of Seville. All morn- 
ing the procession had been pushing its way 
through crowds of enthusiastic people, who 
thronged even the country roads. 

" Look, admiral, look ! " cried Hernando, pointing 
toward the city, where a great concourse of people 
was assenribled. 

" What crowds of people, what crowds of 
people ! " cried the fat, jolly old monk who headed 
the procession. "My lord admiral, methinks you 
will find a goodly company to greet you." 

Amid thundering cheers the procession moved 
slowly forward to the city gate. As soon as the 
guard at the towers caught sight of the banners of 
Columbus, the signal was given, and the cannon 
from the walls roared, and clouds of smoke rose 
over the scene. Surely never was such a gala- 
day known, even in Seville. 

Slowly the procession moved forward, and re- 
newed cries of '• Long live Columbus, long live 
my lord admiral ! " filled the air. 

" How can we enter the city ? " asked Hernando, 
as the procession stopped amid the shouts and 
cries of the busy populace. 

"We must wait until they have in a measure 
recovered from their excitement." 

The sleek monk, on his sleek mule, seemed com- 
plete master of the situation. He pressed forward 
i n the throng, and pushing aside a halberdier, cried : 
19 



290 COLUMBIA. 

" In Heaven's name, sir, do you mean to keep 
the admiral without the gate all day? Give way, 
give way — unless you idiots are made of stone. 
Santa Maria ! 3'ou labberly, overgrown swine, are 
you going to stand in the way until the crack 
o' doom? Can't you move? Hold that fractions 
horse, sir knight — in God's name I pray you to 
hold your horse, unless you would trample down 
the admiral and his followers." 

The monk carried a stout staff in his hand, and 
losing his temper, he began lajnng about him 
until he had cleared a jDassage to the gate, and the 
admiral and his followers and attendants passed 
through beneath the portals. 

Inside the city the crush and excitement was 
even greater. 

" Heavens, what crowds of people ! " cried the 
monk. 

As they passed down the street, every window, 
balcony, and housetop was crowded with specta- 
tors eager to catch a glimpse of the great man. 

" Look at the Indians," cried Hernando. " See 
how excited and astounded they are. This to 
them is a new scene, and they are dumb with 
amazement," 

The poor creatures were bewildered and lost in 
wonder. The waving banners, prancing steeds, 
blasts of trumpets, strains of music, thunder of 
cannon, and hordes of gaily costumed men, 



A LESSON FROM AN EGO. 291 

women, and children, were too splendid and grand 
for their simple minds to comprehend. They 
almost believed they were in heaven, where death 
never comes, 

A house was set apart for Colnmbns and his 
attendants. Wherever the admiral went the 
youth accompanied him, and was frequently mis- 
taken for his son Diego, a page in the royal house- 
hold. 

" How long will you lialt in Seville ? " Hernando 
asked the admiral. 

" Until I hear from the sovereigns, and arrange- 
ments can be made for pressing ou in our 
journey." 

The sun was dipping behind the western moun- 
tains four or five days after the arrival of Colum- 
bus in Seville, when a courier from the royal 
court arrived on a powerful black steed, with 
foam-whitened flanks, 

"Whom do you want?" demanded the guard 
at tbe door. 

" I would see the lord admiral, Christopher 
Columbus." 

" Do you come from our good king and queen ? " 
asked the guard. 

" I do." 

Columbus was informed of the arrival of the 
courier and sent for him at once. He received 
the communication with joy, for it was all he could 



292 COLUMBIA. 

desire. The king and queen expressed their de- 
light, and requested him to repair at once to the 
court to concert plans for a second and more ex- 
tensive expedition. As the summer, the time 
favorable for a voyage, was approaching, thej 
desired liim to make arrangements at Seville 
or elsewhere, such as might liastea the vo^'age 
with as little delay as possible, and to inform them 
by return courier what was to be done on their 
part 

The letter was addressed to him by the title of 
"Don Christopher Columbus, an admiral of the 
ocean, sea, and viceroy and governor-general of 
the islands discovered in the Indies," and at the 
conclusion promised bim still greater rewards. 

No one but Hernando was in the room when 
the admiral read the letter. Having finished it, 
he folded the document and sat for a long time 
gazing at the superscription. Not a word escaped 
his lips, but his eyes grew dimmer and dimmer 
until the tears of joy which had been slowly rising 
from the well-springs of the heart, overflowed and 
trickled slowly down his cheeks, dropping on the 
royal missive. Not understanding the strange 
emotions which stirred the soul of the great man, 
Hernando sprang to his side and cried : 

" What has gone amiss, admiral ; have our 
sovereigns denounced you? " 

" No, no, brave youth ; these are tears of joy." 



A LESSON FROM AN EOG. 293 

Pointing at the superscription, he added: "There 
is the title for which I have struggled and prayed. 
Here it is, acknowledged by the sovereigns them- 
selves. I have waited and labored for a long, 
anxious period for it, and now that I have won it, 
oh, what an empty bauble it is ! " 

"Your work is not yet done, admiral.'' 

" No." 

" There is still a glorious work for you. Re- 
member kumanity " 

" Aye, and God. The Holy Sepulchre is in 
the possession of the unbeliever. I shall now be 
able to raise a sufficient army and go to the rescue 
of Palestine." 

Columbus lost no time in complying with the 
commands of the sovereigns. He sent a memo- 
randum of the ships, men, and munitions of war 
requisite, and, having made such disposition at 
Seville as circumstances permitted, set out for 
Barcelona, taking with him the six Indians and 
the various curiosities and productions brought 
from the new world. 

By this time the fame of his wonderful dis- 
covery had resounded throughout the nation. 
Many still doubted it, while the more credulous 
not only believed it, but also believed much 
stranger and wilder stories. Imagination took 
its wildest flight in enlarging on the wonderful 
countries which had been discovered. The news 



294 COLUMBIA. 

that the procession was to pass at a certain place 
was sufficient to insure a vast crowd. The people 
lined the country roads and thronged villages, so 
much so that, good-natured as he usually was, the 
monk almost lost his temper. 

The streets, windows, and balconies of tlie 
towns were filled witli eager spectators, who rent 
the air with their acclamations. His journey was 
continually impeded by the multitude pressing to 
gain a sight of Columbus and of the Indians, who 
were regarded with as much astonishment as if 
tbey had been natives of another planet. Their 
progress was impeded to such an extent that it 
was the middle of April before Columbus arrived 
at Barcelona. 

Every preparation had been made to give the 
admiral and his faithful followers a solemn and 
magnificent reception. The beauty and serenity 
of the weather in that genial season and favored 
clime contributed to give splendor to this memo- 
rable ceremon}^ As he drew near, many of the 
youthful courtiers and hidalgos, together with a 
vast concourse of the populace, came forth to meet 
and welcome him. The entrance of Columbus 
into the noble city of Barcelona was equal to one 
of the triumphs which the Romaics were accus- 
tomed to decree to conquerors. 

Columbus arranged his procession with con- 
summate skill to make it show off to the best ad- 



I 



A LESSON FROM AN EGG. 295 

vantage. The six Indians, painted according to 
their wild, savage fashion, and decorated witli 
their national ornaments of gold, followed the 
sleek little monk, who, mounted on his sleek little 
mule, led the way. After these were some of the 
various kinds of live parrots, together with stuffed 
birds and animals of unknown species, and rare 
plants supposed to be of precious qualities ; while 
great care was taken to display the Indian coro- 
nets, bracelets, and other decorations of gold that 
a favorable impression of the richness of the newly 
discovered regions might be formed. 

After this procession followed Columbus, 
mounted on a richly caparisoned horse, and at 
his side, mounted on a beautiful spotted Andalu- 
sian pony, was Hernando, as gorgeously dressed 
as a young prince, both surrounded by a brilliant 
cavalcade of chivalry. 

" Behold, my lord, how tbe streets are crowded," 
cried the boy. "The countless multitude make 
them almost impassable." 

" Our friend the monk will force a passage," the 
admiral answered, with a smile. 

" The windows and balconies are crowded witb 
wom.en and children, and the very roofs are cov- 
ered with spectators," the youth said. 

Barcelona was never so thronged, before nor 
since. It seemed as if the public eye could not 
be sated with gazing on these trophies of an un- 



296 COLUMBIA. 

known world ; on the remarkable man bj whom 
it was discovered. There was a sublimity in this 
event that mingled a solemn feeling with the pub- 
lic joy. It was looked upon as a vast and signal 
dispensation of Providence, in reward for the 
piety of the monarchs. And the majestic and 
venerable appearance of the discoverer, in contra- 
distinction to the general idea of the young and 
reckless rover which had been formed of him, 
seemed in harmony with the grandeur and dignity 
of his achievements. 

"Who is the youth at his side? Is it his 
son ? " was asked by many. 

" Hernando Estevan, a youth who has been with 
him through all his tribulations." 

An armed, plumed, and helmeted knight heard 
this and bit his lip with vexation. Turning his 
horse about. Sir Grarcia gave utterance to a curse, 
not loud, but deep, at his ill-fortune. He knew not 
how Miguel had failed him, but determined if the 
rascal lived to punish him. Miguel was beyond 
reach of his punishment. 

In order that the reception might be witnessed 
by the public, and at the same time be with suit- 
able pomp and distinction, the sovereigns ordered 
their throne to be placed in public under a rich 
canopy of brocade and gold, in a vast and splen- 
did saloon. Here king and queen, seated in state, 
with Prince Juan beside them, and many digni- 



A LESSON FROM AN EGG. 297 

taries gathered about, awaited the arrival of him 
who at this time was the greatest man in Spain. 
This is saying much, for in addition to the sover- 
eigns, the principal nobility of Castile, Valentia, 
Catalonia, and Arragon were present, all impa- 
tience to behold the discoverer. 

Columbus and Hernando entered the spacious 
hall, surrounded by a brilliant crowd of cavaliers. 
The admiral was conspicuous for his stately and 
commanding person, which, with his countenance 
rendered venerable by his white hair, gave him 
the august appearance of a Eoman senator. He 
was greeted with applause, and a modest smile 
lighted up his features, showing that he enjoyed 
the state and glory in which he came. What could 
be more deeply moving to a mind inflamed by 
noble ambition, and conscious of having greatly 
deserved, than these testimonials of admiration 
and gratitude of a nation, or rather of a world, 
for the whole civilized world was at this moment 
turning its eyes upon the humble Genoese sailor? 

As Columbus approached the sovereigns, Her- 
nando halted, for the admiral was about to take 
his place among those too grand and august for 
him. At his approach the sovereigns rose as if 
receiving a person of the highest rank. Kneeling 
before them upon the rich vermilion carpet, he 
offered to kiss their hands, but there was some 
hesitation on their part about permitting such an 



298 COLUMBIA. 

act of homage. Taking his hand in her own, 
Queen Isabella raised him to his feet, and in a 
most gracious manner said : 

" Pray, be seated, admiral, and narrate to us an 
account of the striking events of jour wonderful 
voyage and discoveries, and give us a description 
of the islands you have discovered." 

To sit in the presence of the sovereigns was a 
rare honor in this proud and punctilious court. 
In a calm, collected manner he proceeded to give 
a brief account of his wonderful discoveries, dis- 
playing specimens of unknown birds and animals, 
rare plants of medicinal and aromatic virtues ; of 
gold in dust, in crude masses, or labored in bar- 
baric ornaments, and, above all, the native wild 
people, who were objects of intense and inex- 
haustible interest. The queen was delighted. She 
took some of the smaller birds and animals in her 
hands, fondled them, and gave them to her page 
to care for. She conversed with the young Indian 
woman, who bad learned a little Spanish and was 
delighted with all she saw and heard. Columbus, 
after pointing out all he had brought with him, 
said : 

" These are but the harbingers of greater dis- 
coveries yet to be made, which will add realms 
of incalculable wealth to the dominions of your 
majesties, and whole nations of proselytes to the 
true faith." 



A LESSON FROM AN' EGO. 299 

When he had finished, the sovereigns fell on 
their knees, all present following their example, 
and raised their clasped hands to Heaven, their 
eyes filled with tears, as they poured forth thanks 
and praises to God for so great a providence. A 
deep and solemn enthusiasm pervaded that splen- 
did assembly, and prevented all common acclama- 
tions of triumph. When Columbus retired from 
the royal presence, a shout went up from the mul- 
titude. Alone with Hernando, he broke down and 
wept for joy. 

"I shall this day make a vow," he declared. 
" Great wealth must soon accrue to me, and I 
shall give it all to my heavenly Master; within 
seven years I will furnish an army, consisting of 
four thousand horse and fifty thousand foot, for 
the rescue of the Holy Sepulchre, and a similar 
force within five years following." 

One pair of jealous, envious eyes watched 
Columbus, and keenly felt a pang at every sound 
of his praise. It was the guilty Sir Garcia. He 
felt that the triumph of Columbus in some way 
endangered his own prosperity ; and had Miguel 
lived, or could he have found another equally as 
faithful, no doubt the admiral would have been 
assassinated. 

Among the notables frequently with the great 
discoverer and Hernando was Pedro Gonzalez de 
Mendoza, the grand cardinal of Spain and first 



800 COLUMBIA. 

subject of the realm ; a man whose elevated char- 
acter for piety, learning, and liigh, prince-like 
qualities gave signal value to his favors. Sir 
Garcia Estevan, the scheming knight, had man- 
aged, by his subtleness, to ingratiate himself into 
the good graces of the cardinal. Pedro Gonzalez 
de Mendoza invited Columbus and his youthful 
companion, from whom he was almost inseparable, 
to a banquet, where he assigned to the admiral 
the most honorable place at the table, and had 
him served with the ceremonials which in those 
punctilious times were observed toward sover- 
eigns. 

That shallow courtier, Sir Garcia, was present, 
and, impatient of the honors paid Columbus, whom 
he hated because of his attachment to the son of 
his wronged brother, and meanly jealous of him 
as a foreigner, during the banquet asked : 

" My lord admiral, don't you think, in case you 
had not discovered the Indies, there are other men 
in Spain who would have been capable of the en- 
terprise ? " 

Columbus was usually cool and good-natured, 
but his brow lowered a little at this insulting 
query, and taking an egg, he handed it to Sir 
Garcia, saying : 

" Sir knight, can you make that egg stand on 
end ? " 

Wondering what that could have to do with 



A LESSON FROM AN EGO. 301 

answering his question, Sir Garcia took the egg, 
tried to stand it on end, but failed. Then each 
and every one at the table, in turns, tried to stand 
the egg on end, but all failed. When all had 
given it up, Columbus took the egg, struck the 
small end upon the table so as to slightly break 
and flatten it, and left it standing on end. 

"There, sir knight," he said, with a triumphant 
smile, "you can do it now ; and when I have once 
shown the way to tbe new world, nothing is easier 
than to follow it." 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

FATHER AND SON. 

During his sojourn at Barcelona, the sovereigns 
took every occasion to bestow on Columbus per- 
sonal marks of their consideration. He was ad- 
mitted at all times to the royal presence, and the 
queen delighted to converse with him on the 
subject of his enterprises. Occasionally the king 
appeared on horseback with Columbus riding on 
one side and Prince Juan on the other. To per- 
petuate in his family the glorj^ of his achievement, 
a coat of arms was assigned him, in which the 
royal arms, the castle and lion, were quartered 
with his proper bearings, which were a group of 
islands surrounded by waves. To these arms 
were afterward annexed the motto: 

" A Castilla y a Leon, 
Nuevo mundo dio Colon." * 

One day, when the admiral was riding with the 
king, Ferdinand asked : 

" Who is that youth, admiral, to whom you are 
so fondly attached ? " 

" His name is Hernando Estevan, a son of Rod- 

• ^ 

* " To Castile and Leon 

Columbus gave a new world." 



FATHER AND SON. 303 

erigo Estevan, whom your highness may re- 
member." 

" I do ; he was the elder brother of Sir Garcia 
and formerly an heir to the estates since confis- 
cated, but there were some charges of treason 
against him." 

" Made by Abdallah Ahmed, the Moor, and sub- 
stantiated by his own brother, were they not, your 
highness ? " 

" You are right, admiral." 

" Those charges were false, though in the civil 
wars he was true to the house of Castile, while his 
brother championed the cause of Arragon. I do 
not censure your highness, but I believe you were 
wrongly informed." 

"What became of Roderigo?" 

"His fate is unknown. He took passage in a 
ship and sailed westward, and his vessel was never 
heard from. His son maintains that his father 
lives in slavery, and hoped to find him among the 
strange people on the islands we discovered. I 
believe, however, that, if he lives at all, he is a 
slave in some far-off Moorish or Arabian prov- 
ince." 

" What grounds have you for such belief? " 

" The reasons for it I have kept from the son, 
as they might lead to an expedition that, would 
end in his death. On various occasions strange 
hints have been dropped, both by the Moor and 



304 COLUMBIA. 

Sir Garcia, wliicli lead me to such a belief. I do 
not recall the words, but putting this and that 
together, I feel that I have as strong reasons for 
this conclusion as I did in the existence of the 
antipodes." 

After a moment's reflection, the king said : 

" A sailor just returned from Moorish captivity 
has narrated to one of my courtiers a most re- 
markable storv." 

"Have you heard his story? " 

" Not from his own lips, but from the knight to 
whom it was told, and such an impression did it 
make, that I intend sending for him and hear that 
tale of woe o'er again." 

" I trust your highness will, and that I may be 
also a listener." 

Consequently, arrangements were made for the 
next day that the king and admiral might, from 
the prisoner's own lips, hear the story of his cap- 
tivity and bondage. Columbus was at hand ready 
to hear the recital, and had not been long with the 
monarch in the royal chamber when an old man, 
with long, snow-white hair, beard, and bent form, 
appeared before them. His pale, wrinkled face 
seemed to have the dew of death and dungeon's 
mould upon it, and spoke volumes of suffering. 
He tottered forward, leaning heavily on his staff 
as he approached the royal presence. The king 
having great compassion for age and weakness, 



FATHER AND SON 305 

bade bim be seated, and urged him to tell his own 
sad story. Being thus abjured bj his monarch, 
the sufferer said : 

"My liege, this hair is white, but not with years 
nor sickness ; this form is bowed, these limbs 
bent, not with honest toil, but cramped and crooked 
in a dungeon foul. How long did I lay in that 
dungeon, my liege? I know not. It was years, 
many, oh! so many; but how many I have no 
means of knowing. Day and night were one and 
the same — the blessed Sabbath was unknown, and 
went to make up only the accursed hours of agony 
and suffering. 

" I was a simple sailor, who loved my ocean home 
and the sovereign under whose flag I sailed next 
to the God I worshipped. One day we were a few 
leagues off the Canaries, when, in the gray of morn- 
ing, we were surprised by a Moorish rover, who 
gave us chase. We crowded as much canvas as 
our yards could spread, as our masts carry, to get 
clear, but the pursuer rapidly overhauled us, and 
though we fought, were carried by the board, and, 
after losing two men killed and five wounded, were 
made captives and carried to a Moorish port. 
Whilst there, my liege, these eyes beheld much 
misery, and these ears grew accustomed to groans ' 
of agony and death ; but one man shall I always 
remember so long as my faculties remain. No 

braver, nobler, truer chevalier ever couched a lance 
20 



306 COL UMBIA. 

in Spain. He was tall, young, and handsome 
when first brought, but oh, how soon lie changed ! 
The bloom faded from his cheek, and his hair, as 
you see mine, became threads of streaming snow. 
Thej chained him to a column of stone where he 
could not move a single pace, and with the pale 
light of the dungeon falling upon him, he withered 
and grew old. Fettered hand and foot, he pined 
away, listening to the hollow groans of his fellow- 
prisoners near enough to be heard, but like himself 
chained to pillars of stone and unable to move a 
single pace. I was near, and often did I hear him 
cry out : 

" 'Oh ! my wnfe and child ! Would not I give 
each aching member of this racked, tortured body 
to know they were free from the persecutions of 
my wicked brother ? " 

" Whom meant he by wicked brother? " asked 
the king. 

"I know not, my liege. He never spoke his 
name, but once did make mention that he conspired 
with another to poison the mind of the monarch 
against him so that he was forced to fly. When 
he was most despondent and did loudest bewail 
his wretched fate, I sought to cheer him with 
words from where I sat, or even venture a song, 
but my own voice sounded so like a hollow mock- 
ery that I at last desisted. One by one our 
fellow-companions perished and were borne away, 



- FATHER AND SON. 307 

until we alone remained. How we did it, I know 
not, but Heaven came at last to aid us, and tlie 
very iron bands which encircled us became rusted, 
brittle, and rotten, and one awful night we broke 
from our dungeon and fled to the hills and moun- 
tains. Manv weary days did we wander, pursued 
by men and beasts, going we knew not whither. 
Eeason totters at the recollection, and I hesitate, 
my liege, to speak of our sufferings and dangers, 
lest you grow incredulous and fail to believe my 
story. One day we were sorely pressed by our 
pursuers, my companion was wounded by an 
arrow, and, unable to travel farther, I left him in 
the hut of a kind Andalusian mountain shepherd, 
on the frontier, who promised to take care of him. 
I wept as a child at bidding him farewell, perhaps 
forever, and after weeks of weary flight, broken 
down in mind and body, I was picked up by some 
knights and brought thither. This, my liege, is 
my story." 

" Do you know your companion's name ? '' 

"I do, my liege, but at his request I have told 
it to none ; yet, if your highness demands it " 

" His life may depend on the revelation. What 
is his name? " 

'' Eoderigo Estevan ! " 

The admiral started from his seat with a glad 
cry, and the king was in ecstacies at the denoue- 
ment of the storv. The admiral afterward de- 



808 GOL UMBIA. 

clared that the jov of his own triumphs was ex- 
celled by the hope of at last finding Hernando's 
father. The sailor thought he could go to the hut 
where he had left the wounded man, and the king 
and admiral speedily and secretly fitted out an 
expedition, to be led by a chevalier named Carpio, 
to go in quest of the wounded man. 

"T would like to lead the expedition," said 
Columbus. " I love this youth, and it is my 
duty to find his father " 

"We cannot think o£ it, admiral," Ferdinand 
interposed. "You are too valuable to the world 
to risk your life among the brigands of the frontier. 
Should you perish there will be no one to point out 
the pathway to these newly acquired dominions, 
and all may yet be lost. ISTo, no, no ! Chevalier 
Carpio has long been accustomed to such work, 
and his familiarity with the frontier makes suc- 
cess almost assured. We can trust him to go, and 
you must stay." 

When Hernando was informed that his father 
was alive, among the mountains, his joy was 
boundless. So earnest were his entreaties that 
he was permitted to accompany the expedition, 
which was kept a profound secret, for the king 
and Columbus both doabted Sir Garcia. The 
admiral thought he could even trace much of his 
own failure and delay to the unworthy knight. 
The expedition headed by Chevalier Carpio and 



FATHER AND SON. 309 

Hernando set out at midnight, and ere dawn of day 
was fully five leagues and a half from Barcelona. 

The chevalier was as gallant a knight as ever 
wore the golden spurs, or led a score of battle- 
scarred veterans. He was as kind-hearted as he 
was brave, and his soul was roused within him at 
the story of the wrongs of Eoderigo Estevan, so 
that he swore by the mass to rescue him if alive 
and avenge him if dead. Hernando rode at his 
side, and as the chevalier heard his sad story from 
his own lips, he grew to love him as a brother. 

" Yours has been a sad and stormy life," said 
the chevalier, " but we believe that the worst is 
over, and you are soon to realize your fondest 
hopes, the rescue of your father," 

" Heaven grant I may ; but I did not dream he 
was among the Moors. I all along thought he 
was a slave to some wild tribe across the ocean." 

" The words of the Moor Abdallah should 
have aroused your suspicion." 

" I thought them but an idle boast, only uttered 
to throw me off the course I was following." 

" Abdallah has been a curse to your family." 

" Should we meet my evil genius, I pray you to 
spare him to my vengeance." 

With a smile the chevalier answered : 

" Surely, young as you are, you would not dare 
cross blades with the war-hardened Moor." 

" He has an ear less from having met me in 



810 COLUMBIA. 

combat, sir chevalier, and should we meet again 
my experience and skill will be more than a match 
for his strength and size." 

All night long the white-haired sailor led them 
southward, and when morning dawned they were 
at a little hamlet at the foot of the mountains. 
The people were a mongrel class of Andalusians, 
Moors, Ethiopians, and Arabs, who were not a 
little alarmed at seeing a body of armed horse- 
men enter their village. No doubt the villagers 
were in league with the mountain robbers who 
infested the frontier. Dismounting at the public- 
house, Carpio ordered food for his men and horses. 

" We will rest here for three or four hours," he 
said to the impatient son, who was all anxiety to 
press on up the mountains, without a halt, until 
he had found his wounded father. 

During the pause the proprietor of the public- 
house made himself acquainted with the cheva- 
lier, and plied him with questions, which Carpio 
so skillfully parried as to leave him no wiser than 
before. 

" The sovereigns of Spain promised not to cross 
the frontier without permission from the Moorish 
king," the Andalusian finally said. 

" We break no treaty," answered the shrewd 
Carpio. 

'' Are you searching for brigands ? " 

" Do you know if there are brigands in the 



FATHER AND SON. 311 

mountains ? " the chevalier evasively asked. There 
was nothing to be gained by questioning him, and 
very much might be lost, so the Andalusian 
abandoned his plan of asking questions, and grew 
sullen and morose. He retired to where a small 
party of his fellows were assembled, and they con- 
versed in suspicious w^hispers, which portended no 
good to our adventurers. 

There is no season more delightful than an An- 
dalusian May, the time of the expedition. Our 
party, taking leave of the hamlet, advanced into a 
region favored by the Most Holy Virgin, of which 
they were on the southern extreme. They were 
in the loveliest atmosphere in the world, while 
there rose on every side vast ranges of serrated, 
ruddy-peaked mountains, within which were in- 
terleaved the most delightful valleys. A wild, 
ever-changing panorama of beauty opened up 
before them — mountains tipped with gold and 
bordered with emerald, streams of crystal and 
vermilion, valleys dotted with flowers of every 
hue pleasing to the eye ; birds by day and insects 
by night made a constant round of melody. 

Few men were to be seen, but occasionally they 
caught a glimpse of a strange, dark-visaged An- 
dalusian or Moor lurking in the wood. The 
sound of clanking arras sometimes brought forth 
from the mountain cottage a female, who shaded 
her eyes with her hand while she gazed on the 



312 COLUMBIA. 

glittering helmets and burnished lances of the 
cavaliers. 

In places the mountain path became so steep 
thej were forced to lead their horses up or down 
the descent; or, again, following some winding 
path that led along a narrow ledge on the moun- 
tain side at a dizzy height, where a single misstep 
would hurl them to certain destruction, hundreds 
of feet below. 

Thus the frontier was reached, and their guide, 
who had silently led the expedition, informed them 
that they were within a league of the mountain 
cottage where he Imd left the wounded fugitive. 
The sun had passed the meridian, but it was thought 
that they could reach the mountain cottage before 
night. Hernando's heart beat high with hope. 
Was he ere the setting of another sun to meet that 
father whom he had so longed to see? A¥as the 
poor victim of many wrongs, groaning under the 
captivity of years, to be restored to liberty and 
friends? But there has been a miscalculation, 
for nothing is more deceitful than distances in 
a mountain country. In silence they journey 
on, the hours glide by, and yet the cottage is 
not reached. Is the guide at fault ; has he mis- 
taken his way? After all, is Hernando never 
to gaze again on that loved face which he re- 
members as beaming with kindness on him in his 
infancy ? 



FATHER AND SON. 313 

Sunset ill Andalusia ! A grim, gray waste, 
bordered by an unending chain of mountains, 
looking vaster and drearier under the fast falling 
shadows of night; a red glow far to the west falls 
luridly across the darkening sky and ghostly 
mountain peaks; a dead, grim solitude, an im- 
mense, crushing loneliness pervades the region 
where life, save in gorgeous vegetable form, seem 
not to exist; the world seems young as if just 
turned from the hands of the Creator. 

Like a slender thread of silver the young moon 
hangs in the ethereal vault, and the pale, lambent 
glow of the evening star shoots athwart the path 
of the departing day. Dimly outlined at the base 
against the darkening sky, but with clear-cut 
peak, rises a huge mountain before the little band. 
The guide, with snow-white hair and form bent 
from chains, points up the mountain side, and 
whispers : 

" 'Tis there ! " 

But hark! A sound like the martial tread of 
armies falls on their ears, the clank of arms, 
and a moment later three score dark-skinned bri- 
gands ride out of the mountain pass. They are 
Moorish bandits, and the dim, uncertain light re- 
veals foe to foe. They are directly in the path- 
way to the cottage where lies the wounded man, 
and but one result could follow such a discov- 
ery. 



314 COLUMBIA. 

With visors down and lances couched, the 
Spaniards, though inferior in numbers, charged 
recklessly on the Moors, who were still pouring 
in from the pass. There was a prolonged crash, 
like a succession of thunderbolts ; lances flew into 
splinters, and men and steeds rolled quivering in 
the dust. The first onset was but the beginning 
of carnage — swords flashed in the twilight and 
arrows hummed through the air. There was no 
time to use the matchlock, and but little to fit the 
feathered points of the darts to the bowstring. 
The sober gray of twilight gave place to a darker 
hue, and the conflict still raged, although the faces 
of the combatants were hardly discernible. But 
the sharp eyes of hate were quick to pierce the 
deepening gloom. At the first onset Hernando 
received a frightful blow, which loosened his 
casque, and sent it rolling upon the ground. He 
was stunned by the shock, and his horse thrown 
back upon its haunches, but the rider still retained 
his seat. 

" Hernando Estevan, Christian dog, I know 
vou ! " cried a voice which the youth recos^nized. 
Then Abdallah the Moor, his hereditary' enemy, 
charged him with drawn cimeter. The lad's 
trusty blade was in his hand, and he parried the 
stroke aimed at his head; and his horse regain- 
ing its feet, Hernando pressed his antagonist with ■ 
blows and thrusts which required all the Moor's 



FATHER AND SON. 315 

skill to parry. Some on foot and some on horse- 
back, friend and foe mingled in one revolving 
mass, diflficult to tell which from which. A lance 
pierced the Moor's horse and the animal fell ; in a 
moment the youth was over his fallen enemy, and 
as Abdallah Ahmed rolled from his steed Hernando 
leaned forward in his saddle, and with a quick 
thrust sent his long, keen blade into the Moor's 
breast. Up, up, up, almost to the hilt, the blade 
disappeared beneath the joints of armor, and with 
a gasping sob the Moor fell by the side of his 
wounded horse, never to rise again. Hernando 
had avenged his father. 

The Moors, though numbering three to one, 
were taken at a disadvantage, and after a short, 
stubborn resistance retreated back through the 
pass, leaving four of their number slain and two 
wounded in the hands of the Christians. 'From 
one of the captives they learned that Abdallah 
Ahmed, having gained information that day that 
an escaped prisoner was hiding at the cottage of 
a shepherd, was on his way to slay the fugi- 
tive, when he met the Spanish cavalcade in the 
pass. 

" Let us hasten to the cottage," cried the anxious 
son, and as soon as the wounded could be taken 
care of, they followed the white-haired guide up 
the mountain path to a small hut. 

The simple-minded but honest-hearted shepherd 



816 COLUMBIA. 

met them at the door. He had heard the sounds 
of conflict in the valley below, and, being a timid 
man, trembled as he asked : 

"In God's name, men, what was the noise in 
the valley ? Methought all the armies of the 
earth were battling." 

"All is over, and you are in no danger, senor," 
Carpio answered. " Is the fugitive who escaped 
the Moorish prison and was wounded, here? " 

For a moment the mountaineer hesitated, and 
then said : 

"I cannot speak a lie, senor; he is here, but 1 
trust you will do him no harm." 

"We are his friends, come to save him." 

They were then admitted to the cottage, where 
Hernando saw a tall, grave man, with a broad, 
high forehead, a deep, black eye, and hair of 
snow, sitting on a chair, his wounded leg on a 
stool. One glance at the fine, noble face, and de- 
spite the changed, wasted features, he recognized 
his father. The youth had a dim recollection of 
that face, and, staggering forward, he cried : 

" Father ! " 

Then he fell on the neck of his astounded 
parent, and when Roderigo Estevan learned it 
was his own son who had led the rescuing party 
he exclaimed : 

" My noble son, you have fully repaid me for 
my years of suffering." 




THE Y(JUTH HAD A DIM HhX^OLLECTlON OF THAT FACE, AND, STAGGEKING 
FORWARD, HE CRIED, "FATHER!" 



» 



FATHER AND SON. 317 

They returned to Barcelona. The king granted 
a general ])ardon to Koderigo, and, having ample 
proof of the duplicity of Sir Garcia, ordered the 
false knight to be arrested and thrown in prison, 
which order was promptly obeyed. 



CHAPTER XIX. 

EMIGRATION. 

The higher a man rises in social and political 
power the greater will be his fall, should he fall, 
and to a man with a vaulting ambition and 
haughty pride, such as Sir Garcia Estevan pos- 
sessed, the fall is crushing. From the moment the 
herald announced the return of Christopher Co- 
lumbus, he felt that his evil star had risen, and 
his good fortune was forever gone. So cunningly 
had his manipulations with Miguel been planned, 
that he felt secure from direct charge of assassina- 
tion, perhaps from discovery. His hired assassin 
had been slain without breathing a word of the 
dark secret, and not dreaming that his brother 
lived, he felt himself tolerably secure. 

His brother's sudden return to life was a shock 
from which he never fully recovered. The story 
of his wrongs had not time to go the rounds, and 
touch the hearts of people, before the knight was 
arrested and thrown in prison. 

"Of what am I charged? " he asked the officer 
executing the king's warrant. 

" Of conspiracy." 

" Against whom ? " 



EMIGRATION . 319 

" A subject of the realm." 

"Who? What is his name?" 

"Sir Roderigo Estevan." 

"I am undone," the prisoner groaned on being 
locked up in his cell. " I hate Roderigo with all 
the hatred of a devil, and the only consolation I 
have is the knowledge that I have blasted his hap- 
piness forever. Ttore him from his wife and child, 
sending her to an early grave, and he to a Moorish 
prison. Could I have completed all by slaying 
the boy, I could bear my own humiliation." 

On learning of Sir Garcia's arrest and impris- 
onment, Roderigo hastened to the monarch and 
plead for a royal pardon for his brother. The 
king listened with an attentive eai-, and when he 
had ended, said : 

" I cannot but admire your forgiving spirit, but 
out of public necessity I must refuse your prayer. 
Justice must be done though the heavens fall, 
and justice demands that a crime against a subject, 
as well as against the crown, must not .go unpun- 
ished." 

All entreaty was in vain. 

Next day Roderigo called on his brother Garcia, 
who.met him with a cold, sardonic smile on his 
pale, yet handsome face. He was scrupulously 
neat in his attire, cool and cynical as usual. He 
had not much to say to his brother, and there was 
no sign of penitence in his manner. Roderigo said : 



320 - COLUMBIA. 

" I know what a prison's life is, mj brother, and 
will do all in my power to liberate you." Sir Garcia 
smiled, rubbed his hands together, and, with a 
mocking sneer, thanked him. 

" Has the king said aught of a pardon? " he 
asked. 

"No, and I regret to say I can give you no 
hope, brother." 

The interview ended, and when Koderigo left 
his brother's cell. Sir Garcia bade him adieu with 
that same cold, cynical smile on his handsome 
face. It was a final adieu, for next morning the 
jailor found Sir Garcia hanging by his neck from 
a beam in his cell. With a piece of cord, which 
he had in some unaccountable way obtained, he 
had committed suicide. On his handsome feat- 
ures that same cold, cynical smile so characteris- 
tic of the man, was frozen even in death. 

Shortly after the burial of Sir Garcia, the king- 
sent for Roderigo, and, accompanied by his son, he 
hastened to his royal presence. The king greeted 
both with a smile and said : 

" Senor Estevan, I wish in part, at least, to 
make amends for some of the great wrongs you 
have suffered at my hands." , 

" My liege, I make no complaint," Roderigo an- 
swered. 

" True, and the fact that you have made none 
makes me more keenly feel the wrong I have done 



EMIGRATION. 321 

you. I want to make amends. How can I in 
any way right the wrong? No one save a con- 
scientious monarch knows the trials to which he 
who wears the crown is subjected. We cannot 
see all things ; we cannot give every matter a per- 
sonal investigation, and, as was true in your case, 
we are frequently misinformed by designing per- 
sons. When we have made a mistake we are 
anxious to make amends, and if you will tell me 
how I can in any part remedy the wrongs you 
have suffered, I shall be happier for the sugges- 
tion." 

For a few moments the noble Spaniard was 
silent, and then in his calm, clear, solemn voice, 
answered : 

" Bj never mentioning the matter in which my 
unhappy brother was engaged." 

" Can I by restoring your ancient estate, or giv- 
ing you a title — ? " 

" My liege, those confiscated estates are held by 
innocent purchasers, and to right me would be to 
rob them. Two wrongs do not make a right, and 
titles and honors not won are but empty baubles." 

" Spoken like a philosopher," cried the delight- 
ed king. " But surely you will let me do some- 
thing to aid you. What are your intentions for 
the future ? " 

" My plans are not yet formed, but my son, who 
displays wisdom and courage far beyond his years, 



322 COLUMBIA. 

has a plan which to me seems reasonable, and I 
have consented to it with your highness's per- 
mission." 

"What is it?" 

" Yon have vast possessions beyond the sea. A 
new world has been opened up to civilized man, 
and with your grace's permission we will go there 
and begin life anew." 

After a brief silence the king with a sigh 
answered : 

" Perhaps 'tis best. In a new country there are 
many possibilities, and to the vigorous and brave 
the new world offers great inducements." 

" We have considered everything, my liege, and 
decided to go." 

" Then I will issue a commission to you, with a 
patent and grant to all the land you may require, 
and you may locate it anywhere in our newly 
acquired possessions." 

Estevan thanked his sovereign, and assured him 
that the land-grant would be worth much more 
than an impoverished estate or an empty title. 
They had a long interview with Christopher Co- 
lumbus, agreeing to become members of the emi- 
grant party, which was to leave Spain for the 
new world, and then set out for Seville, thence to 
Palos. A messenger had been sent in advance to 
notify the good grand-dame of the return of Her- 
nando's father. 



EMIGRATION. 323 

Christina was as eager to see the lately released 
captive as if he had been her own father. Was 
he not already like a father? And when she be- 
held the face so deeply furrowed with grief and 
bleached with imprisonment, she fell on his neck 
and wept for joy that he was restored to his 
friends. 

Once more Hernando and Christina roam hand 
in hand by the seashore. Having overcome her 
coyness, she is never more happy than when at 
his side. Again their voices are heard prattling 
among the dear old hills, and they sit and listen 
to the dashing surf on the seashore. The waves 
laugh and bubble with joy. Their crested foam 
tells no tale of captivity, slavery and chains. The 
birds join in their music from the groves behind 
them and give their aid to the laughing sea to 
make up one grand round of merriment. In the 
fulness of her joy Christina says : 

" We have every cause to be happy. Our 
troubles have rolled away like a storm-cloud leav- 
ing the sun brighter than before, and the future 
bids fair to be a long summer day of quiet joy." 

After a moment's silence, Hernando said : 

" Christina, we have decided to go to the new 
world." 

"Who?" 

" Father and I." 

" Will you leave me so soon ? " 



824 COLUMBIA. 

"No, we will take you and the good grand- 
dame Senora Doria with us, and there in that 
strange, new, bright world we will build us a 
home that in magnificence will excel a king's pal- 
ace. The king has issued a patent and grant to 
us, and the future seems bright with hope." 

Somehow the human mind is so constituted 
that a change of life or of scenery is always ac- 
ceptable, especially to the young. The poor or 
oppressed welcome the thought of pushing out 
into a new country, and building up a home for 
themselves. Across the western ocean to the 
country which from the very first was looked 
upon as the land of the free and the oppressed, 
the eyes of all Europe began to look with hope. 

Christina and Hernando then repaired to the 
little cottage, where the graud-dame was informed, 
and all the little household assembled together to 
rejoice. They went to the little monastery next 
day where all confessed themselves, had mass, 
and then father and son set out on their return to 
Barcelona, where Columbus still tarried, pending 
preparations for a more extensive visit to the 
new world. 

Some complications had arisen between Spain 
and Portugal requiring the wisest statesmanship 
and nicest diplomacy to prevent serious trouble. 
But in the end all was adjusted satisfactorily, and 
preparations for the second voyage resumed. 



EMIORA TION. 325 

Pinelo, who acted as cashier to provide for the 
expenses of the expedition, had two-thirds of the 
church tithes placed at his disposition ; while 
other funds were drawn from the jewels and other 
valuables, the sequestrated property of the unfor- 
tunate Jews banished from the kingdom according 
to a bigoted edict of the preceding year. As these 
resources were still inadequate, Pinelo was author- 
ized to supply the deficiency by a loan. Requisi- 
tions were likewise made for provisions of all 
kinds, as well as for artillery, powder, muskets, 
lances, horses, corselets, and cross-bows. Not- 
withstanding the introduction of fire-arms, the 
cross-bow was still preferred by many to the 
arquebus, or match-lock ; not so much on account 
of its being more destructive and effective, as on 
account of the unwieldiness of the arquebus, 
which had to be rested on an iron rack and fired 
with a slow-match. The flint-lock which followed 
the match-lock, had not yet come in use. The 
military stores which had accumulated during the 
war with the Moors of Granada furnished a great 
part of these supplies. Almost all the preceding 
orders had been issued by the 23d of May, 1493, 
while Columbus was yet at Barcelona, and rarely 
has there been witnessed such a scene of activity 
in the dilatory offices of Spain. 

Roderigo Estevan was still lame from the arrow 
wound received at the time of his escape, and had 



826 COLUMBIA. 

to walk by means of a staff. He was recuperat- 
ing rapidly, and by the time he and his son re- 
turned to Barcelona was restored to something 
approximating his former self. Going to the 
admiral lie told him his intention to emigrate to 
the new world. 

The conversion of the lieathen being professedly 
the grand object of these discoveries, twelve zeal- 
ous and able ecclesiastics were chosen for tliat 
purpose to accompany the expedition ; among 
them was Bernardo Buyl or Boyle, a Benedictine 
monk of talent and reputed sanctity, but at the 
same time one of the subtlest politicians of the 
cloister, in a day when the state was almost wholly 
controlled by the clergy. Before the sailing of 
the fleet he was appointed by the Pope his apos- 
tolic vicar for the new world, and placed as 
superior over his ecclesiastical brethren. 

By way of offering Heaven the first fruits of 
these pagan nations, the six Indians whom Co- 
lumbus had brought to Barcelona were baptized 
with great state and ceremony, the king and 
queen and prince Juan officiating as sponsors. 
Great hopes were entertained that, on their return 
to their native country, they would facilitate the 
introduction of Christianity among their country- 
men. 

Before the departure of Columbus from Barce- 
lona, the provisional agreement made at Santa Fe 



EMIGRATION. 327 

was confirmed, granting him titles, emoluments, 
and prerogatives of Admiral, Viceroy, and Gov- 
ernor of all the countries he had discovered or 
might discover. He was also entrusted with the 
royal seal, with authority to use the names of 
their majesties in granting letters-patent and com- 
missions within the bounds of his jurisdiction ; 
with the right, also, in case of absence, to appoint 
a person in his place, and to invest him for the 
time with the same powers. 

Roderigo Estevan declined an office tendered him, 
saying he had done nothing worthy of official favor. 

" You ought to accept a title that your son 
might inherit it," Columbus replied. 

"The greatest honors man can win are the 
esteem of his fellow man. My son is too young 
to be knighted, and the honor should not be con- 
ferred on the father for what the son has done. 
We ask no honors ; we are only humble citizens, 
who go to make up the hardy people that are to 
build a new empire." 

" And 3'ou are most needed," answered the wise 
admiral. " The hidalgos of high rank and Andalu- 
sian cavaliers, schooled in arms, who enter on this 
expedition hoping for military glory, wealth, and 
renown, are not worth half so much to the expe- 
dition as he who goes to make the wilderness 
blossom as a rose, and the earth to yield her fruits 
to man." 



328 COLUMBIA. 

Cadiz was to be the scene of the second departure 
of Columbus, and thither all stores and valuables 
were sent. Thither flocked adventurers, statesmen, 
and ecclesiastics, all anxious to enter upon a voy- 
age from whicli everybody shrunk a few months 
before. It was not a question of who could be 
induced to go, but of who should be selected from 
among the many applicants. Among the noted 
personages who engaged in the expedition, was 
the young cavalier, Don Alonzo de Ojeda, a rela- 
tive of the grand inquisitor of Spain. This 
young adventurer, being of one of the best fam- 
ilies of Spain, was a great acquisition to the ex- 
pedition. 

Hernando and his father hastened to their little 
cottage home to gather up their few effects and 
prepare for the long voyage. Money had been 
advanced them to buy cattle, horses, sheep, and 
fowls, as well as provisions and implements for 
working in forests, mines, or fields, wherever their 
lots might be cast. 

" I can't part from this dear little cottage home 
without feelings of regret," said the grand-dame. 

" Many memories, pleasant as well as painful, 
linger about the dear old home," answered Eod- 
erigo. " Here I brought my sweet young wife in 
her blushing womanhood, and there we lived the 
few blissful hours of joy allotted to us. Here our 
son was born, but, good mother, there has also 



EMIGRA TION. 329 

been much suffering here as well. From this cot 
I fled for life, pursued by the avarice and hatred 
of one who bj nature should have defended me. 
Here I embraced my wife for the last time, and 
went forth to a living death. But withal, noble 
mother, we will be happy in the new home we 
shall make in that new world. We go to build 
up a new and powerful dynasty. Kings and lines 
of kings yet unborn will live to bless the first 
emigrants to the new world." 

Gathering up a few precious relics and heir- 
looms, they bade farewell forever to the little 
mountain cottage, and set out for Cadiz. It was 
not without feelings of deepest regret that they 
tore themselves away from their little home, and 
many times in other years, in far-off lands, did 
they in their memories' vision see the pretty little 
cot, which their eyes were no more to behold for- 
ever. 

The journey to Cadiz was through a country 
wild with excitement. It seemed as if all South 
Spain was anxious to migrate across the western 
ocean to the unknown regions of the new world. 
They found the admiral at Cadiz, superintending 
the embarcation. Greeting them warmly, he took 
the hand of Hernando, and said : 

" Since you have found your father, I have lost 
you. I wish I could have you with me as con- 
stantly as you were on the other voyage, for to 



330 COLUMBIA. 

jour vigilant watclifulness the success of our 
enterprise greatly depended, but I cannot insist 
that you abandon him and cleave to me." 

"I shall always hold my admiral in the highest 
esteem," the youth returned. 

"Needless to sav that — I know it, yet I would 
rather always have you with me, for you bring 
good luck wherever 3'ou go." 

The departure of Columbus on his second 
voyage of discovery presented a brilliant contrast 
to his gloomy embarcation at Palos. At dawn of 
day on the 25th of September, 1493, the baj^ of 
Cadiz was whitene'd by his fleet. Three large 
ships and fourteen caravels loitered and waited 
with flapping sails the signal to get under way. 
The harbor resounded with the well-known note 
of the sailor hoisting sail or weighing anchor. A 
motley crowd was hurrying on board, and taking 
leave of friends in the confidence of a prosperous 
voyage. Many anticipated an early return, others, 
eager to escape the vengeance of a broken law, 
were going to that strange, wild world, to begin a 
new and they hoped a better life. 

There was the high-spirited cavalier bound on 
romantic enterprise; the hardy navigator, ambi- 
tious of acquiring laurels in these unknown seas ; 
the roving adventurer, seeking novelty and excite- 
ment ; the keen, calculating speculator, eager to 
profit by the ignorance of savage tribes ; and the 



EMIGRATION. 33 1 

pale missionary from the cloister, anxious to ex- 
tend the dominion of the Church, or devoutly 
zealous for the propagation of the faith. All 
were full of animation and lively hope. Instead 
of being regarded by the populace as devoted men, 
bound upon a dark and desperate enterf)rise, they 
were contemplated with envy, as favored mortals 
bound to gold regions and happy climes, where 
nothing but wealth, luxury, wonders, and delights 
awaited them. Columbus, conspicuous for his 
height and commanding appearance, was attended 
by his two sons, Diego and Fernando — the eldest 
but a stripling — who had come to Cadiz to witness 
the departure of their illustrious father on his 
second voyage into the unknown seas. Wher- 
ever the admiral went, every eye followed him 
and every tongue sounded his praises. 

Standing on the high poop-deck of one of the 
largest vessels wasRoderigo Estevan, the emigrant, 
and his little family. Hand clasped in hand, 
Hernando and Christina stood, with tear-dimmed 
eyes, gazing at the shore. Anchor was weighed, 
and, amid the wildest cheers, the thunder of can- 
non, and waving of banners, the fleet set sail. 

Long after the fleet had been under way Her- 
nando and Christina stood gazing off at the lovely 
hills of Spain, until the shores of the old world 
faded away from their sight forever. 



CHAPTER XX. 

CONCLUSION. 

A SEA voyage in the olden time, when naviga- 
tion was in its infancy, was quite different from 
the sea voyage of to-day — where one rides in a 
floating palace, and many of the dangers and 
inconveniences of storms and rouQh weather are 
overcome. Months, instead of days, were occupied 
in crossing the ocean. Hernando was the only 
one of his father's family who was not seasick. 
He had gained his sea-legs on the first voyage out, 
and experienced no ills at present. 

Though sailing in the admiral's ship, he was 
with him but little of the time, as his seasick rela- 
tives required his constant care. 

Before sailing, Columbus had given the com- 
mander of each vessel a sealed letter of instruc- 
tions, in which was specified his route to the 
harbor of Nativity, the residence of the cacique 
Guacanagari. These instructions were only to 
be opened in case of being separated by accident, 
as he wished to make a mystery, as long as pos- 
sible, of the exact route to the newly discovered 
countr}'', lest adventurers of other nations, and 



CONCLUSION. 333 

particularly the Portuguese, should follow in his 
track and interfere with his enterprises. 

When in mid-ocean they were attacked at night 
by a fearful rain-storm, during which they beheld 
several of those lambent flames usually called St. 
Elmo's fire, playing on the masts of the vessels. 

They reached the island of Dominica, where 
they made a short stay, and then continued west- 
ward, discovering the Antilles; making the first 
landing at Guadaloupe, where the savages were 
so much frightened they ran away, and in their 
terror and confusion left their children behind 
them. 

Hernando, who was one of the first to go ashore, 
caressed one of the screaming infants, and bound 
hawks-bells to its arms to amuse it. All the other 
little fellows, anxious for some of the same kind 
of toys, soon gathered about him, and were treated 
in a like manner. 

The Spaniards continued cruising about among 
the islands, going farther southwest, and finding 
among some of them what they thought to be evi- 
dences of cannibalism. 

On tlie 14th of November, owing to a stress of 
weather, Columbus was forced to put in at one 
of the Carib islands called by the Indians 
" Ayay," but to which he gave the name of " Santa 
Cruz." Hernando's father was sent on shore with 
a well-manned boat, to get water and procure in- 



334 COLUMBIA. 

formation. They found a village deserted bv the 
men, but secured a few women and boys, most of 
tliem captives from the other islands. 

Hernando, who had been left to watch the coast, 
now ran to his father, and cried : 

" Father, I see a canoe coming ronnd a point of 
land; behold, it is in view of the ships." 

" You are right, my son. Those fellows knew 
nothing of our presence. See how the Indians 
stop and gaze in mute M^onder on the ships, and 
now, while they are so absorbed, let us steal upon 
and capture them." 

The Spaniards leaped in their boat, and pulled 
with all possible speed for the canoe, and were al- 
most on it before discovered. With a savage 
yell, the Indians seized their paddles and tried to 
escape, but could not, as the boat was between 
them and the land, cutting off their retreat. 

" They are going to fight," cried Hernando, as 
the savages caught up their bows and arrows, 
which they used with great vigor and rapidity. 
Notwithstanding the Spaniards covered themselves 
with their bucklers, two of them were wounded. 
The women fought as desperately as the men, and 
one of them sent an arrow with such force that it 
passed through and through a buckler, wounding 
the man who held it. At Eoderigo's command, 
they dashed their boat against the canoe, capsiz- 
ing it. 



CONCLUSION. 335 

Bat the trouble was not over, for some of the 
savages got upon the sunken rocks, and others 
discharged their arrows while swimming. 

" Don't hurt them if you can avoid it," cried 
Roderigo ; but Ruiz, a sailor, being hard pressed 
bv one fellow, transfixed him with a lance. One 
by one they were overtaken and captured with the 
greatest difficulty, and brought to shore, where 
the man who had been run through with the lance, 
died. One of the women, from the obedience and 
deference paid her, appeared to be their queen. 
She was accompanied by her son, a young man 
strongly built, with a lion's face and scowling 
brow. He had been wounded in the conflict, but 
seemed wholly indifferent to pain or the blood 
which trickled down his side and dropped on the 
sand. The hair of these savages was long and 
coarse ; their eyes were encircled with paint so as 
to give them a hideous expression, and bands of 
cotton were firmly bound above and below the 
muscular parts of the arms and legs, so as to cause 
them to swell to a disproportioned size. The 
Caribs were war-like and fierce, and refused to be 
conciliated. In the skirmish they used poisoned 
arrows, and one of the wounded Spaniards died in 
a few days from the arrow sent through his buckler 
into his flesh by the woman. 

For several days the fleet continued to cruise 
about among the Caribs, trying in vain to concil- 



836 COLUMBIA. 

iate them, but day by day becoming more fully 
impressed with their prowess and war-like natures. 
Evidences of cannibalism became so plain that one 
of the Spaniards, Peter Martyr, in his letter to 
Pamponius Ltetus, says : 

" The stories of Lestrigonians and of Polyphe- 
mus, who fed on human flesh, are no longer doubt- 
ful ! Attend, but beware, lest thy hair bristle 
with horror ! " 

It was the 23d day of November, 1493, that the 
fleet arrived off the eastern extremity of Hispan- 
iola, or what is now known as the island of Hayti. 
The greatest excitement prevailed throughout the 
armada at the thought of soon arriving at the end 
of their voyage. Memories of the pleasant days 
passed among the delightful groves and gentle 
natives haunted those who had been here on the 
former voyage, and others looked forward with 
eagerness to scenes painted to them in all the cap- 
tivating illusions of the golden age. 

Hernando and his father, with a dozen sailors, 
were sent ashore to bury the Biscayan sailor, who 
had died from the poisoned shot of the Carib 
queen. Two light caravels hovered near the 
shore to guard the boat's crew while the funeral 
ceremony was performed on the beach under the 
trees. Several natives came off to the ship with 
a message to the admiral from the cacique of the 
neighborhood, inviting him to land, and promis- 



CONGL USION 337 

ing bim great quantities of gold ; but Columbus 
was anxious to return to Fort Nativity, and giv- 
ing the messengers presents, dismissed them. 

On the 25th they anchored in the harbor of 
Monte Christi ; where Columbus was anxious to 
fix a place for a settlement in the neighborhood 
of the stream to which in his first voyage he had 
given the name of Rio del Oro, or the Golden 
River. Among others who landed here were the 
Estevans, father and son. While roaming about 
the coast they were horrified to find on the green 
and waste banks of the rivulet the bodies of a 
man and boy, the former with a cord of Span- 
ish grass about his neck, and his arms extended 
and tied by the wrists to a stake in the form of a 
cross. 

" We cannot tell whether they are Spaniards 
or Indians," the youth remarked, as he gazed at 
the bodies before him. 

" No, they are too much decomposed for one lO 
determine," the father returned. 

" Father, let us not make our home here." 

" Why ? " 

"These dead bodies make it repulsive." 

This discovery changed all the plans of the 
emigrants, and those who had contemplated land- 
ing here decided to go on to Fort Nativity. 

Sinister doubts and fears rose in the breast of 
the admiral on learning of the discovery, and he 



838 COL UMBIA. 

resolved to set sail at once for tlie harbor of 
Nativity. 

On the night of the 27th of Noveml)er thej ar- 
rived opposite the harbor thej desired so much to 
reach, and cast anchor about a league from land, 
not daring to venture through those dangerous 
reefs after dark. It was too late to distinguish 
objects, and the admiral, anxious to let the 
Spaniards ia the port know of his arrival, fired 
two cannon. 

"There is no answer," Columbus sighed, after 
listening to the echoes rolling along the shore. 
" Let every one watch for some gleam of a signal 
light or sign of life." All did, but none was seen; 
all was darkness and a death-like silence. The 
admiral paced his deck in the greatest anxiety, 
and never did he more long for morning. 

" I see a canoe, Admiral ! " said Hernando, 
about midnight. 

"Where?" 

" Coming toward us." 

"Maybe it is some of the Spaniards from the 
fort," and the white, anxious face of the admiral 
gleamed with hope as he spoke. 

" No ; there are Indians in the boat," Her- 
nando answered, when the boat came near enough 
for him to make out the occupants. 

" Bring Diego Colon to the deck," Columbus 
commanded. The admiral was trembling with 



CONCLUSION. 339 

anxiety, for somehow he felt strangely impressed 
that all was not well with the little colony he had 
left on the island, 

Diego Colon was a young Lucayan, native of 
the island of Guanahani, who had been baptized 
at Barcelona and named after the admiral's 
brother, Diego Colon, He continued always 
faithful and devoted to the Spaniards to the day 
of his death. 

The canoe came up to within a cable's length 
of one of the ships and paused, and the Indians 
who were in it hailed one of the ships and called 
for the admiral. They were at once directed to 
his ship, where Columbus stood on the deck wait- 
ing in the greatest anxiety. They drew near and 
stopped. 

"Tell them to come on board," said Columbus 
to his interpreter, who stood at his side. 

Then Diego Colon spoke to them, and asked 
why they did not come aboard, and was answered 
that they wanted to see the admiral before they 
came on board, Columbus then went over to the 
side of the ship, and lights were held up that his 
features might be recognized ; and the Indians, 
being satisfied, came aboard the ship without fur- 
ther hesitation. 

One of them, a cousin of the cacique Guacan- 
agari, brought a present from him of two masks 
ornamented with gold. 



340 COLUMBIA. 

"Ask them about the Spaniards who remained 
on the island," said Columbus to his interpreter. 
Somehow the very manner of the Indians seemed 
to increase the anxiety of the admiral, and he 
instinctively felt that all had not gone well. 

Diego Colon spoke to them, and for several 
minutes they continued jabbering in what was 
worse than Greek to the eager listening admiral 
and officers. Then Diego turned to Columbus 
and said : 

"My language, the Lucayan, is verj^ different 
from that of Hayti, and I don't know that I 
make it out plain ; but they seem to say that sev- 
eral of the Spaniards fell sick and died, others 
quarrelled among themselves, and others removed 
to a different part of the island and have taken 
to themselves wives. Guacanagari has been as- 
sailed by Caonabo, the fierce cacique of the 
golden mountains of Ciabo, who wounded him in 
battle and burned his village, so that he remains ill 
of his wound in a neighboring town, or he would 
have come in person to welcome the admiral." 

" What do you think of the story the Indians 
tell, father?" Hernando asked, whenihe account 
had been translated. The Estevans were a short 
distance from the admiral, yet near enough to 
hear what the interpreter said. 

"I don't believe it," answered the father. 

"Nor I." 



CONCLUSION. 341 

"I doubt if the admiral gives mucla credence 
to it." 

" He has great faith in the cacique." 

The Indian visitors were treated to wine, of 
which the J evinced a great fondness, and departed 
considerably under the influence of liquor. Morn- 
ing dawned and passed away, and the day ad- 
vanced and began to decline without the promised 
visit from the cacique. 

" Why don't he come? " the admiral impatiently 
asked himself again and again. Hernando, with 
the freedom and familiarity which long association 
might warrant, went to Columbus and suggested : 

" Tlie Indians may have been lost, admiral. 
They left the ship drunk, and it is possible their 
canoe capsized before they reached the shore." 

There was a silence and an air of desertion 
about the whole neighborhood, extremely sus- 
picious. On their preceding visit to the harbor 
they found it a scene of continual animation ; 
canoes gliding over'the waters, Indians in groups 
on the shores, or under the trees, or swimming off 
to the caravel. Now, not a canoe was to be seen, 
not an Indian hailed them from the land, nor was 
there any smoke rising from among the groves, to 
give a sign of habitation. 

Hernando, his father, and twenty others were 
sent on shore to reconnoitre. On landing they 
hastened to the fortress, which they found in ruin ; 



342 COLUMBIA. 

the palisadoes were broken dowu, and the whole 
presented the appearance of having been sacked, 
burned, and destroyed. Here and there were 
broken chests, spoiled provisions, and the ragged 
remains of European garments. 

" My son, this h)oks very suspicious," said Sefior 
Estevan. 

"There is something wrong here. Not an In- 
dian approaches us, when on our former visit they 
were friendly as brothers." 

"That only confirms my suspicion that the gar- 
rison has been murdered." 

At this moment Hernando saw two or three 
dark faces watching them at a distance among the 
trees; and, calling his father's attention to them, 
he said : 

"Let's go to them. Perhaps they may tell us 
something." 

Accompanied by his father and Diego Colon, 
Hernando started toward them; but the faces van- 
ished at their approach, and when they reached 
the spot where they had been seen, they could 
find no trace of them. Meeting no one to explain 
the melancholy situation, they returned with de- 
jected hearts to the ships, and related their sad 
discovery to the admiral. 

Columbus was still loath to believe in the perfidy 
of Guacanagari, and went ashore next day to look 
for the village of the cacique, which he found to 



COKCLUSION. 343 

be a heap of burnt ruins, showing that it had 
been involved in the same disaster of the garrison. 

The admiral determined not to leave matters in 
doubt in this manner, and. proceeded to take steps 
for knowing as much as possible of the sad story. 
He ordered Arana to clear out the well and make 
every possible search for any evidence that might 
go to throwing light on the matter, while he, with 
Hernando, his father, and three boats loaded with 
armed men, set out to look for a better situation 
for a fortress. After proceeding about a league 
they came upon a hamlet, the inhabitants of which 
fled at their approach, taking whatever they could 
with them, and hiding the rest in the grass. In 
the houses were European articles which evidently 
had not been procured by barter, such as stock- 
ings, pieces of cloth, an anchor of the wrecked 
caravel, and a beautiful Moorish robe, which evi- 
dently had not been unfolded since brought from 
Spain. Not a single European could be found, 
and the admiral returned to Fort Nativity, where 
he learned that seven dead sailors had been found 
buried. 

The outlook was not very flattering to the emi- 
grants, but they did not despair. Koderigo Este- 
van argued, though first attempts at building up a 
new empire might fail, be had seen enough of 
this new world to believe it was destined to be- 
come one of the mighty nations of earth. 



344 COLmiBIA. 

Columbus made no complaint of the Indians, 
but as soon as possible called on the cacique, and 
though the conduct of Guacanagari was such as 
to cast suspicion on him, and has caused subse- 
quent historians to implicate him with the death 
of the Spaniards, jet Columbus did not upbraid 
or reproach him. 

It was many years before Hernando heard the 
true story of the death of his former comrades. 
No sooner was the admiral gone than the Span- 
iards left at Fort Nativity gave way to their pas- 
sions to such an extent as to make the friendly 
Indians their enemies. Dissensions grew up 
among themselves, which finally resulted in open 
brawls and fights, and they weakened their num- 
bers to such an extent that they could make little 
resistance to their enemies when roused. They 
disobeyed Columbus in separating their forces, 
and wandering away from the fort, and paid the 
penalty with their lives. 

The subsequent history of Columbus is a sad 
page in the great book of humanity ; but 'tis ever 
thus. He who does most for mankind, is by 
mankind least appreciated. Even the Holy One, 
who came to save the world from eternal death, 
was by the world crucified. Columbus was not 
only robbed of his discoveries, so that the western 
hemisphere bears the name of another, but was 
wrongfully accused, thrown in prison, and carried 



CONCL U8I0N. 345 

back to Spain in chains. He died a disappointed 
and heart-broken man. His pet plan of rescuing 
the holy sepulchre was never fulfilled, and per- 
chance it was God's wish it never should be, for the 
. ways of Providence are mysterious and inscru- 
table. We cannot but regret that so great and 
good a man as Columbus, one who gave his life 
to the discovery of the New World, should have 
been neglected in his old age, maligned, misused, 
and have died a heart-broken and disap23ointed 
man. 

Hernando and his father, after no little chang- 
ing about, finally settled at San Domingo. On 
Christina's sixteenth birthday, she and Hernando 
were married at the little chapel which had been 
erected on the island. They lived in Cuba for 
many years, and there two of their children were 
born. Their oldest son was named Christopher 
Eoderigo Estevan. The grand-dame and Hernan- 
do's father died and were buried on the island of 
Hispaniola. Hernando Estevan not only became 
one of the pioneer emigrants to the New World, 
aiding in many of the subsequent explorations 
and settlements, but became the father of a long 
line of hardy frontiersmen, who have conspicu- 
ously figured in American history from the dis- 
covery of the western continent to the present 
age. 



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